Late 19th Century American Southern Alkaline Glazed Stoneware 6 Gallon Storage Jar (Catawba Valley, North Carolina)

Up for sale is a Late 19th Century American Southern Alkaline Glazed Stoneware 6 Gallon Storage Jug (Catawba Valley, North Carolina)! It measures 20 7/8” tall to the top of the rim and 12” in diameter at its widest point. The piece is in great overall condition with signs of wear consistent with its age and use (scattered surface wear; natural firing imperfections). Please message us if you have any questions. Thanks!

Discover a unique piece of American folk art history with this monumental late 19th century Southern stoneware storage jar from North Carolina's famed Catawba Valley region. Exemplifying the extraordinary skill of regional traditional potters, this substantial six-gallon capacity jar showcases a classic alkaline glaze—a historic formula crafted by combining locally sourced hardwood ash, crushed glass, and river clay. When fired at extreme temperatures in subterranean semi-buried groundhog kilns, these natural materials fused to form a rich, deep brown surface with dramatic glaze runs, dark mottling, and a glossy, textured patina unique to 1800’s Southern pottery. Near the rim, the jar features an authentic stacking ring—a prominent unglazed ceramic ledge where smaller pots were stacked directly above it inside the cramped kiln bed, leaving a distinct visual footprint of historical production methods. Hand-thrown with sturdy, heavy-duty lug handles and classic primitive proportions, this rare surviving Catawba piece is highly sought after by specialized stoneware collectors. It serves as a commanding centerpiece for curated collections, an impressive floor accent, or a rustic statement piece to enhance hearths, entryways, and modern farmhouse interiors.

♦️$100.00 flat rate shipping to all of the United States (Combined, international, and freight shipping as well as local pickup available upon request!)