Slip-Decorated Redware Plate, Inscribed "MB", attributed to Asa E. Smith, Norwalk, CT, second or early third quarter 19th century, with coggled edge, the interior decorated in yellow slip with the large initials, "MB", underscored by a wavy flourish and two spots. Exceptional condition. Provenance: A fresh-to-the-market example, from a long-term Wilmington, DE collection. This plate survives in difficult-to-find near-mint condition with a tiny fleck off slip on interior, very faint surface wear to interior, and a small piece of in-the-firing clay adhered to rim. Diameter 9 1/8".