5 Gallon D. P. Shenfelder Reading Stoneware Cooler

Item Description

Historically Significant and Possibly Unique Open-Handled Stoneware Water Cooler with Charming Forge Stenciling, Stamped “D.P. SHENFELDER & CO. / READING, PA,” circa 1870, highly ovoid, five-gallon jug-form cooler with ribbed open handles and circular bunghole, decorated with an elaborate brushed-cobalt flowering vine design. Reverse stenciled in black after the firing “NO 2 / VINEYARD / CHARMING FORGE,” referring to the historically important property known as Charming Forge, located near Womelsdorf, PA, approximately fifteen miles west of Reading. Excellent form and decoration. Desirable Pennsylvania maker. Few Shenfelder coolers are known, this being possibly the only surviving example with period stenciling. Small chip and two hairlines to spout. H 16 3/4”.