Colander

1882-1908

Maker

Samuel Bell & Son (active 1882-1908)

Measurements

6-3/8 in x 12-1/4 in x 10-1/2 in (dia)

Materials

Glazed redware

Credit Line

Historic Odessa Foundation, gift of H. Rodney Sharp

Accession Number

1959.3875

Inscription

The maker's mark “S·BELL&SON / STRASBURG” is stamped into the side of the body.

Provenance

Ex coll. H. Rodney Sharp

Comments

This colander is a bowl, thrown on a potter's wheel, that has holes pierced in it.  Four rows of holes, joined by incised lines, as well as additional holes piercing the bottom, allow water or other liquids to drain easily.  The redware body, which is porous, is coated inside and out with a clear glaze.  The outside is also unevenly covered in a dark brown or black glaze.  The heavy lip or rim is slightly canted.  Applied handles at opposite sides have prominent rib molded into the center.  The handles are often called lugs, because they are fully attached to the body, leaving no opening.

The Bell pottery, begun in 1833 by brothers Solomon and Samuel Bell, continued until Solomon died in 1882.  At that time, it operated under the name of S. Bell and Son.  After Samuel died in 1891, his sons Richard Franklin and Charles Forrest continued the business until Richard died in 1908.  Charles closed the pottery before the end of the year.