(William Nicholas Craven, 1820-1903, Randolph County, NC) large stoneware storage crock, circa 1850, with applied handles, wide flange rim, ovoid tapered body, the front centered with an exceptional and unusual incised decoration of a spread winged eagle colored with cobalt, potter's stamp and capacity mark "5" to the left of the eagle.

16.75 in.

William was the eldest son of Anderson Craven, working out of a shop at Moffitt's Mill until his move to Missouri in 1857. Reference "The Craven Family of Southern Folk Potters" by Quincy Scarborough, pp. 34-35.

Area of loss to rear of crock approximately 3 x 2 in.; tight hairline extends across bottom and 4 in. up one side into the body; stable good condition.

$2,000 - 3,000