Imperial Gallon Crock Appraisal

Medalta Potteries 4 Imperial Gallon Stoneware Crock with Lid

This is a vintage cylindrical stoneware crock manufactured by Medalta Potteries Ltd. in Medicine Hat, Alberta, Canada. The vessel is finished in a traditional salt-glazed or Bristol-glazed cream-colored finish. Centered on the body is a large black stamp featuring the numeral '4' above the word 'IMPERIAL', indicating a four-gallon capacity. Near the base, the circular Medalta Potteries Ltd. maker's mark is clearly visible. The crock includes its matching stoneware lid with a central knob handle. Physically, the piece shows characteristic manufacturing irregularities such as small glaze pops, slight pitting, and unevenness typical of early 20th-century mass-produced pottery. Visible condition issues include some darkening or faint staining near the base, minor surface abrasions, and small chips along the upper rim of the crock body. The craftsmanship reflects the industrial utility style of the 1920s to 1950s period. It remains a heavy, durable piece of functional kitchenware or agrarian storage with significant historical value for regional Canadian pottery collectors.