STAMPED "R BTT / W", WASHINGTON, DC DECORATED STONEWARE JAR, salt-glazed, "1" gallon capacity mark, semi-ovoid form with rounded rim and applied arched tab handles. Brushed cobalt floral decorations including a triple bloom design with feather-like foliage to front, reverse with similar single bloom design, additional cobalt to handle terminals. Made for Richard Butt (c. 1793-1865), Washington, DC. 1834-1846. 9 7/8" H, 5 1/4" D rim.
Catalogue Note: Richard Butt acquired his first pottery business in Montgomery County, Maryland circa 1826. Never formally trained as a potter, Butt's primary occupation throughout his life was in the field of law enforcement; the pottery business served only as an additional form of income. By 1834, Butt had relocated into the nation's capital, founding the area that would later be known as "Potters' Kiln Square". During this time, he also served as overseer of the city's paupers asylum, which also held individuals convicted of minor criminal offenses, some of whom may have been employed at his nearby pottery. Multiple master potters were employed at Butt's establishment over the years including English born John Walker (c. 1805-1880) and German born Joseph Straub (c. 1800-1868). Butt sold his pottery business by 1846, continuing primarily with his law enforcement vocation. Butt's most prestigious position came when President Lincoln appointed him commissioner of the Metropolitan Police of the District of Columbia in 1863. Sadly, he died only two years later.

Collection of the late Al and Billy Steidel, Alexandria, VA.

Having a chip to base and one handle, and a medial radial crack.