Wilford Dean Handmade Stoneware Pitcher with Sculpted Face Handle, North Carolina Folk Pottery

This exceptional handmade stoneware pitcher is an authentic example of Southern folk pottery by Wilford Dean, celebrated North Carolina folk artists known for their imaginative sculptural vessels. Wheel-thrown in traditional stoneware and finished with expressive hand-built details, this pitcher embodies the narrative spirit and humor that define Dean family pottery.

The warm brown, alkaline-glazed body features subtle throwing rings and natural glaze movement, emphasizing its handmade origin. What truly distinguishes this piece is the sculpted black-glazed face integrated into the handle, a hallmark of Wilford Dean’s work. The expressive facial features peer playfully over the rim, transforming a functional pitcher into a storytelling object rooted in Appalachian folk traditions. The contrast between the earthy glaze and the glossy black sculptural element creates strong visual depth and character.

Both functional and sculptural, this pitcher reflects the Dean family’s approach to pottery as usable art—objects meant to be lived with, admired, and passed down. It would be a standout addition to a folk art collection, Southern pottery display, or rustic-modern interior. A genuine example of North Carolina’s rich ceramic heritage, this piece captures the whimsy, craftsmanship, and individuality for which Wilford and Nan Dean are widely recognized.

Dimensions: 8" W x 8" H