IMPORTANT FOUR GALLON STONEWARE CROCK WITH COBALT BLUE DECORATION OF A SEATED DEER WITH A STANDING STAG, J. & E. Norton, Bennington, Vermont, circa 1855

Stamped J. & E. NORTON / BENNINGTON VT.

With minor 1/2 in. chip to lip above proper right handle; several minor hairline cracks; with minor yellowing to glaze; minor loss to cobalt blue at base.
In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective qualified opinion.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.

This is a rare form of which only four are known to exist.  One of the four is in the Museum of Fine Arts, Boston donated by Mrs. Lloyd Haven in memory of Nina Fletcher Little (acc. no. 1993.546). Another sold for $90,000 in the Distinguished American Furniture and Folk Art: The Collection of Susan and Mark Laracy sale at Sotheby's, January 20, 2007, lot 76.