Pitcher (Primary Title)
Attributed to, Chester Webster, American, 1799 - 1882 (Artist)
Scholars have identified twenty-two works by the celebrated “Bird and Fish Potter,” as Chester Webster is known. Rarely stamped by name, his works are representative of the most accomplished stoneware produced in the United States, reflecting three dominant influences: German salt-glazed stoneware; New England incised decoration; and a distinctive southern clay whose abundance of silica was particularly receptive to salt glazing.
Eighty years old when he made this pitcher, Chester Webster incorporated every design element for which he is known: the bird, the fish, the date, the detailed handle terminal, the pointed-petal flower, the cartouche. It was the final orchestration of a long career. Shortly after its completion, Chester Webster left Randolph County to live with his nephew in Marion County, South Carolina. He died there two years later.
Some object records are not complete and do not reflect VMFA's full and current knowledge. VMFA makes routine updates as records are reviewed and enhanced.
