Rare and Fine Five-Gallon Stoneware Jug with Large Cobalt Bird Decoration, Inscribed "F & V.A.", Flack and van Arsdale, Cornwall, Ontario, Canada origin, circa 1870, cylindrical jug with tooled spout, decorated with a large slip-trailed design of a bird perched on a scrolled branch. Inscribed above in slip-trailed cobalt ".5. / F & V.A.". The decoration on this jug is more elaborate than is typically seen from this firm, featuring spotting to the bird's head and along the edge of the scrolled vine. The size of the decoration is noteworthy, as the bird measures an impressive 12 3/4" from head to tail, and the method of signature, in the form of slip-trailed initials, is most unusual. The finest example of Flack and van Arsdale stoneware that we have ever offered. A 1 1/2" chip to side of spout. A minor, very shallow base flake. Otherwise excellent condition. H 18".