Four-Gallon Crock

Dateca. 1881

Attributed to Fulper Brothers (active 1881-1890)

MediumGray salt-glazed stoneware

DimensionsOH: 11 1/2"; Diam: 11 1/2"

Credit LineMuseum Purchase

Object number1972.900.1

DescriptionStraight sided salt-glazed stoneware jar with two handles that are applied. Albany slip interior. Cobalt blue decoration of an abstract flower with a bow tied around the stem and a series of three outward radiating dots. The design was applied with a brush and a slip cup. A single incised band around the crock about an inch below the rim and a "4" stamped above the design, which is a capacity marker for this four gallon crock.Label TextWide-mouthed jars, or crocks, were ideal for storing pickled or brined foods and often held lard, salted meat covered by lard, and butter as well. Most of these jars originally had loose-fitting ceramic lids that helped keep their contents from spoiling rapidly due to exposure to air. It is unusual to find an intact crock lid.Mark(s)"4": capacity mark above the blue design