Pitcher

Art Historical Context

This stoneware pitcher, crafted in 1896 by Dedham Pottery with the involvement of Hugh C. Robertson, represents a thoughtful example of American ceramic production the close of the nineteenth century. Its modest dimensions of roughly six by seven inches suggest a practical vessel designed for everyday use, while the durable stoneware medium highlights the era’s emphasis on sturdy, high-fired materials that could serve both functional and decorative purposes in American homes. As part of the Metropolitan Museum of Art’s American Wing, the pitcher offers insight into the cultural importance of domestic ceramics during this period. American potters like those at Dedham sought to create objects that blended utility with quiet elegance, reflecting broader interest in well-made household wares. Acquired in 2018 as a gift from Robert A. Ellison Jr., the piece now invites visitors to appreciate the skill and restraint of late nineteenth-century American craftsmanship.

About the Artist

Dedham Pottery|Hugh C. Robertson (American| ) · 1895 |1844 –1943 |1908

1895–1943|1844–1908