Item 6730
 
Coming to you from Doc's Crocks is this Superb 3 Gallon Stoneware Pedestal Water Cooler "From James Hamilton & Co., Greensboro, Pa."  
 
James Hamilton ran his pottery in Greensboro from the 1860's to 1880 (Phil Shaltenbrand, Big Ware Turners, pp. 154-157). 
 
Circa 1870-1880, this beauty features a one piece pedestal form with bulbous top with rounded rim and flared base with rounded footer, applied handles, squared spigot opening, and rounded seam between the two halves of the cooler.  The top, middle, and bottom are adorned with stripes.  The front features the company advertising framed by two emblems and the bottom hosts yet another emblem.  The back features three more emblems.  Light gray glaze and dark cobalt make for a strong contrast all around.  Stands 16 1/4" tall.  
 
Excellent Condition with Minor Professional Cosmetic Touchup.   A 1" surface ping line inside the rim, a 2" ping line on the rounded trim between the two halves in the back, and some scattered exfoliation on the base.  Professional touchup for a kiln touch on the front to the right (see older photo) and a much smaller one on the left side of the top emblem in the back.  Restoration to a small chip on the right handle.  Additional photos of each stage of touchup are included with cooler. No body hairlines, cracks, or stains. 
 
Ships double-boxed, insured, and FREE