Rare Two-Gallon Lidded Stoneware Jar with Slip-Trailed Cobalt Lion Scene, Stamped "J. & E. NORTON / BENNINGTON, VT", circa 1855, cylindrical jar with rounded shoulder, applied lug handles, and flaring, semi-rounded rim, the front decorated with a slip-trailed design of a lion with turned head, heavy mane, and curled tail, seated around a stylized ground, flanked by a fence and tree. Cobalt highlights to maker's mark and capacity mark. Jar includes original salt-glazed lid. This example features an unusual lion variant with narrower, dog-like head, but including the typical mane and tail of a lion. Excellent decoration, color, and condition. Provenance: A fresh-to-the-market example, which recently surfaced in New England. Jar in very nice condition with a 3" vertical crack at base on side of jar, continuing 3 1/2" onto underside, as well as an additional very tight 5" Y-shaped line on underside. Additionally, a small in-the-firing iron ping under one handle and a few small chips to interior of rim. Shallow chipping to inner rim, where lid rests. Lid in very nice condition with a minor chip to knob, a minor edge chip, and other minor flaws.