George N. Fulton Freehand Decorated Stoneware Mug

Circa 1867-1894: Very few stoneware mugs produced by George William Newman Fulton (1834-1894) are known to exist, and this beautifully thrown salt glazed mug with exuberant Albany slip freehand decoration is a very fine example of this quirky and creative Shenandoah Valley of Virginia potter's output. Fulton was fond of experimenting with different types of slip decoration, and his work from rural Alleghany and Botetourt Counties is instantly recognizable by its whimsical brushwork. This rare 5" tall mug is in excellent condition with one minor shallow flake on the bottom and no cracks or repairs. The mug's provenance is exceptional and includes the esteemed Alexandria, Virginia dealer Christopher H. Jones, the Ted and Alvina Breckel collection, and the John and Lil Palmer collection.