This antique Amercian pitcher, dating to circa 1830, is a rare example of slip-decorated creamware that evokes the spirit of mochaware but diverges from its typical look.
Rather than featuring the dendritic or banded motifs common in mochaware, this piece is dipped in a deep chocolate-brown slip and hand-decorated with a naïve yet charming grapevine motif.
The decoration, applied over the dark ground, includes a wavy line in ochre and iron red, interspersed with stylized clusters of orange grapes outlined in ochre, and leafy green vines.
This folk art approach to surface decoration is rustic and expressive, created by a potter experimenting beyond standardized designs.
The pitcher’s spout and handle are accented with hand-painted cobalt blue, adding another distinctive touch.
Though it shares mochaware’s use of colored slip and lathe-turning techniques, its painterly, organic decoration sets it apart.
Dimensions: 6.5″ tall x 4.5″ diameter
Condition: Excellent