Extremely Rare One-Quart Stoneware Jug with Bold Cobalt Spotted Watch Spring Motifs, attributed to Abraham Mead, Greenwich, CT, circa 1760-1785, ovoid jug with tooled spout and ribbed strap handle, decorated with a slip-trailed watch spring design, underscored by a stylized drape, and accented with spots throughout. Reverse decorated with large watchspring emanating from the lower handle terminal, with spotted drape below. This striking, colonial-period jug was previously purchased directly from a member of the Mead family, implying a Mead provenance. However, its spout molding and raised slip are more characteristic of earlier products of Adam States (to whom Mead was apprenticed) than Mead's well-known 1790s pieces. This example may, in fact, be a States piece, which descended in the family of his apprentice, or a particularly early example of Mead's work, following the master's style. Provenance: A fresh-to-the-market example, purchased decades ago by the consignor; Ex-Mead Family. Remarkable condition, particularly when considering its age. A tight horizontal line at base with short line extending from it, continuing 1/2" onto underside. A second 1 1/4" line on underside. (Lines of this type are common among pieces of this period and may have occurred in-the-firing.) Minor handle wear. H 8".