1863 New York Butter Churn

Appraised on: June 25, 2005

Appraised in: Tampa, Florida

Appraised by: Stephen Fletcher

Category: Folk Art

Episode Info: Tasty Treasures (#1520)
Tampa, Hour 1 (#1001)

Originally Aired: January 9, 2006

IMAGE: 1 of 2  

Appraisal Video: (1:00)

GUEST: It's been in our family forever, from my grandmother to my mother to us.

APPRAISER: Where did they live?

GUEST: Upstate New York.

APPRAISER: Well, I think that's indeed where this originated, Havana, New York. Butter churns are butter churns, and for years it was a form that stoneware collectors weren't necessarily that interested in, except when you see a piece of stoneware that's decorated so extravagantly as this. It makes a real difference. You know, this cobalt, free-form decoration I think is especially good. The pottery is identified here. It's identified as having the capacity of holding six gallons, so this is an impressive piece of stoneware. I think it has its original sort of Albany slip top, and even the plunger, it's all there. It's wonderful. We're thinking probably in excess of $3,000.

GUEST: Wow.

APPRAISER: A stoneware collector would really reach for this piece. It's bold and vivid and big and flashy. You know, they like to show off, so...

GUEST: Sure.