Chamber Pot

Dateca. 1815

Attributed to John Swann

MediumSalt-glazed stoneware

DimensionsOverall: 6 3/8in., 8cm, 9 1/2in. (16.2cm, 3 1/8in., 24.1cm)

Credit LineMuseum Purchase

Object number2009-10

DescriptionSlightly ovoid brown, salt-glazed stoneware chamber pot with narrow base and strap handle. The rim of the vessel coated in a dark iron wash.Label TextChamber pots are rare survivals above ground and American-made examples even more so.

John Swann (w. 1811-1831) was born in 1789 in St. Mary's County, Maryland. He was apprenticed to Lewis Wilson Plum (also Plumb) in 1803 to learn the potter’s trade. Swann began his potting business in 1811 with a financial partner, Jonathon Scholfield. In 1820 Swann advertised specific goods at specific prices including large chamber pots at 2.33/dozen and lesser chamber pots at 1.50/dozen. Swann sold his business to Hugh Smith, merchant, but continued potting for him. Most of Swann's wares were not decorated with cobalt.