Antique N. Clark & Co. (Lyons, NY) 2-Gallon Cobalt Decorated Ovoid Stoneware Jug – Mid-19th Century

Bring a piece of early American history into your space with this exceptional 2-gallon salt-glazed stoneware jug, manufactured by the renowned N. Clark & Co. in Lyons, New York between the 1820s and 1840s. This beautiful piece features a classic, swelling ovoid (teardrop) silhouette, a design characteristic of early-to-mid 19th-century utilitarian pottery before manufacturers shifted to straight-sided cylinders. The upper shoulder bears a crisp, deeply impressed maker's stamp reading "N. CLARK & CO. / LYONS", positioned directly above a hand-brushed, vibrant cobalt blue "2" capacity mark and a charming, stylized floral folk art motif. The exterior boasts a textbook "orange peel" textured salt glaze, while the interior is sealed with a rich, dark brown Albany slip. This authentic piece is proudly offered as part of the esteemed hpmurr collection, showcasing a fine lineage of curated historic Americana. Condition Report: • Overall: Presenting in honest, highly displayable antique condition with beautiful coloration and strong cobalt contrast. • Wear & Flaws: Features standard superficial surface scratches, minor manufacturing glaze skips, and tiny iron pings consistent with 19th-century kiln firings. • Specific Damage: Includes a 3/4-inch chipped loss along the front edge of the base, typical of decades of authentic domestic use. • Restoration: Not examined under UV blacklight; potential minor historical restorations may be present. Dimensions: • Height: 14 inches (35.5 cm) • Diameter: 10.5 inches (26.5 cm) ________________________________________ Styling & Versatility Guide Interior Design Placement Ideas • Modern Farmhouse Focal Point: Position this jug as a centerpiece on a reclaimed wood dining table, a kitchen island, or arranged alongside copper cookware on open shelving. • Rustic Entryway Greeting: Place it on a console table in an entryway or mudroom, styled next to vintage books, woven baskets, or a textured table runner. • Warm Minimalist Accent: Contrast the jug's earthy, tactile glaze and striking blue folk art against clean, neutral palettes in contemporary spaces—such as inside a minimalist built-in bookcase or atop a sleek fireplace mantel. Decorative Versatility • Seasonal Floral Vessel: Use the jug as a heavy-duty vase to hold dramatic seasonal branches, dried wheat stalks, or eucalyptus leaves. • Bookend or Anchor: Its substantial 2-gallon weight makes it a perfect, functional anchor at the end of a long console shelf or a rustic fireplace hearth. ________________________________________ Seller Disclosure & Terms of Sale Please Note: This is a genuine, mid-19th-century antique item. Due to its age and utilitarian history, it naturally exhibits manufacturing imperfections, firing flaws, and wear from historical use as detailed in the description and photos. All items are sold "as is" and "where is." While we make every effort to accurately describe and photograph the condition of our inventory, buyers are encouraged to review all images carefully. Total accuracy regarding internal hairlines, microscopic fractures, or professional historical restorations cannot be fully guaranteed without microscopic or advanced UV testing. All sales are final.