Signed W. T. McLennan Ash Glazed Jug, Cobalt Flowers, Hollytree Alabama, 1987
Condition: This is a beautiful Signed W. T. McLennan Small Glazed Jug, Cobalt Flowers, Hollytree Alabama, 1987, in Collectors Grade premium condition. Pristine “as fired”. Dimension 6 inches tall, 4.5 inches wide at the handle, 3.125 inches diameter at the base. Weight 21.5 ounces. Signed “McLennan Pottery, Hollytree AL 1987.” One handle. Blue cobalt flower or tree leaf design. Wood fired, ash glaze.
McLennan Pottery in Hollytree, Jackson County, Alabama, was started by Willard Tom McLennan in the early 1950s. He began creating pottery as a way to continue the traditions of folk pottery in the region. His work, particularly known for its distinctive face jugs and functional pottery, gained recognition over the years, and he became a significant figure in the folk art pottery community in Alabama. His family, including his children, later joined him in the 2024 pottery business, helping to carry on the craft and legacy he established.
W.T. McLennan (1951?-2023)
(Willard Tom McLennan)
Potter and face jug artist from Hollytree, Alabama.
Hollytree, Alabama is an unincorporated community in the Paint Rock Valley in Jackson County on SR 65, around 10 miles (15.6 km) northeast of Gurley. McLennan Pottery was the pottery of southern folk artist and face jug creator Willard T. (WT) McLennan, who was active at least into the late 80s and early 90s until his death in 2023.
Was originally a stained glass artist who learned at least some of how he made his pottery from his studio mate in Huntsville, Arch Pike. Known for duplicating a Sand Mountain glaze technique in the 1980's. Made pieces based on southern pottery in general and Belcher's Gap in particular. All this info is from Joey Brackner's book;
Graduated Dothan High School 1967
References:
Joey Brackner's Alabama Folk Pottery
Willard T. McLennan passed away at the end of March, 2023. He was inactive in the prior recent months after his kiln broke and he wasn't able to repair/replace it.
McLennan Pottery, located in Hollytree, Alabama, has a unique history and is known for its distinctive pottery, particularly its stoneware. Here are some key points about its history and rarity:
1. **Founding and Background**: McLennan Pottery was founded by William McLennan in the early 20th century, specifically around the 1920s. The pottery was established in Hollytree, a small community in northeastern Alabama, which provided access to natural resources necessary for pottery production, such as clay.
2. **Craftsmanship and Style**: The pottery produced at McLennan is characterized by its functional stoneware, often featuring a rustic aesthetic with a focus on durability. The pieces were typically handmade, and the craftsmanship reflects traditional Southern pottery techniques. The glazes used often included earthy tones and were designed to be both practical and visually appealing.
3. **Cultural Significance**: McLennan Pottery is significant within the context of Southern folk art and craft traditions. It represents a continuation of the pottery-making practices that have been part of Southern culture for generations. The pottery serves as a reflection of the local community and its artistic heritage.
4. **Rarity and Collectibility**: Over the years, McLennan Pottery has become increasingly rare and collectible. Many pieces are sought after by collectors due to their limited production and the artisanal nature of the work. The rarity is compounded by the relatively small scale of production compared to larger pottery manufacturers.
5. **Legacy**: The legacy of McLennan Pottery is preserved through both the pieces that remain in circulation and the cultural memory of the pottery-making tradition in Alabama. As interest in folk art and handmade crafts continues to grow, McLennan Pottery is often highlighted for its historical and artistic value.
Collectors and enthusiasts appreciate McLennan Pottery not only for its functional qualities but also for its connection to regional identity and craftsmanship, making it a prized addition to collections of American pottery.
You are buying this small McLennan Ash Glazed Jug as photographed in this listing; as is. We will ship to eBay-verified addresses only. Please use the eBay message system for all communications. You will pay postage, which is estimated in this listing. The shipping estimate was generated by the eBay shipping calculator plus special handling to insure the safety of the item
