Rare Three-Gallon Stoneware Jug with Cobalt Decoration of a Bird Eating Grapes, Stamped "COWDEN & WILCOX / HARRISBURG, PA," circa 1865, ovoid jug with wide spout, decorated with a brushed cobalt design of a bird perched atop a cluster of grapes in feeding posture. Brushed cobalt leaves and corkscrewing vines extending above bird. Cowden & Wilcox stoneware is difficult-to-find depicting a bird and grapes on the same piece. Provenance: A fresh-to-the-market example, purchased approximately thirty-five years ago. Essentially as-made condition. Shallow contact mark at top of spout on reverse.