SPARKS, MD. — Crocker Farm’s Spring 2022 stoneware auction set a new record for Pennsylvania stoneware when they achieved $144,000 for a stoneware pedestal water cooler made and stamped by William Moyer of Harrisburg, Penn. Purchased by an advanced collector of ceramics, the circa 1858-61 ovoid cooler had unusual open handles with impressed rosette terminals, a virtually unknown feature in Harrisburg’s stoneware production. The exquisite slip-trailed cobalt decoration drew inspiration from that of the New York potting tradition but is unknown among pieces surviving from Moyer’s production; additionally, it is the only known example on a piece bearing his stamp. Not least, the importance of the piece was underscored by its inclusion in Jeanette Lasansky’s iconic book, Made of Mud: Stoneware Potteries in Central Pennsylvania, 1834-1929. The price realized handily beat the previous Pennsylvania stoneware record of $97,750, which Crocker Farm set in 2014.

Prices quoted include the buyer’s premium as reported by the auction house; a full sale review to follow.