Item 12034
 
Coming to you from Doc's Crocks is this superb 5 Gallon Ovoid Stoneware Water Cooler.  Ex. William Grande Collection.
 
The decoration indicates that it originated in Athens, N.Y.  The center flower is found on pottery by   Nathan Clark and Ethan Fox (1829-1843) and the leaves and leaves made to look like flowers are found on pottery by their successor, Nathan Clark, Jr. (1843-1891) (William Ketchum, Jr., American Stoneware, p. 66).
 
The serious ovoid shape indicates an early date of manufacture of around 1835-1845.  
 
This beauty features a Very Ovoid Form with Rounded Rim, Tall Neck, Large and Detailed Lion Heads for Handles, Front and Back Spigot Openings with Fancy Trim, Footer, and a Large and Delicate Triple Floral on the Front.  The floral is composed of base leaves with three frilly blossoms emerging from it.   And did I say lion's heads-- they are two of the largest you will ever find on American Stoneware.  Stands 15 1/2" tall.
 
Excellent Condition.  A 1" narrow chip on the lower lip of the lion on the left and a 5/8" chip on the nose of the lion on the right. No rim or base chips, hairlines, cracks, stains or restoration.  A stone ping inside the neck in the making. 
 
Ships double-boxed, insured, and FREE