Water Cooler
Period1821
Place MadeSouth Amboy or Old Bridge, New Jersey, U.S.A.
MediumSalt glazed stoneware
Dimensions13.75 × 9.5 in. (34.9 × 24.1 cm)
InscribedScratched into the front of the water cooler and highlighted with cobalt blue glaze is the inscription "E W / June 16 th 1821."
ClassificationsStoneware
Credit LineGift of Mrs. William C. Riker, 1956
Object number1979.517.4
DescriptionA large ovoid bellied water cooler, of brownish gray salt-glazed stoneware, made to resemble a traditional cask, with groupings of molded horizontal bands spaced along the body and highlighted with cobalt blue glaze. A small circular fill hole pierces the top of the cooler, while a larger spigot hole with a molded flange rim painted with cobalt blue glaze is centered along the bottom edge of the container.Curatorial RemarksStoneware was the perfect ceramic vessel to keep liquids cool. The heavy clay body and thick salt glazing resulted in a naturally insulated container. Although identified as a "water cooler," this vessel could have been used to store a variety of liquids, including spirits or beer, which might need to be kept cool and available. The hole at the top of the crock would have been used to fill the container, most likely using a funnel, while the opening at the bottom of the vessel would have been fitted with a spigot.NotesThis interesting water cooler, although unmarked, may have been made by one of the active stoneware potteries in the Cheesequake area of Middlesex County, possibly in South Amboy or Old Bridge. The vessel was inscribed with the bold monogram of "E W," as well as the date of June 16, 1821. The large size of this cooler, and the inclusion of the initials and date, may indicate that this was made specifically for a tavern or similar business in the Middlesex County area. Business owners often had custom-designed and inscribed pieces made by local potters, either to commemorate the opening of a store, an anniversary, or to serve as advertisement.
Collections
