Item 10650
 
Coming to you from Doc's Crocks is this early 4 Gallon Ovoid Jar made and stamped by "I. M. Mead & Co."
 
This is the mark of Ira Mead, one of Ohio's earliest potters who worked in Portage County, Ohio in the 1830's to the 1850's (See F. Robert Treichler, A History of Northeast Ohio Stoneware, pp. 27-29).
 
Made around 1840, this jar has a Large Size, Early Ovoid Form with the Capacity Number and Pottery Stamp Accented in Cobalt.  Exuberant cobalt accent on the handle terminals as well. Measures 14" tall and 11" wide across the top.
 
Very Good Condition.  Two chips inside the rim (1/2", 2"), and four chips on the back of the rim (1/4" to 1/2").  No base chips, hairlines, cracks, stains, or restoration.  Alligator glaze in the making typical of early Ohio pottery.   
 
Ships double-boxed, insured, and FREE