Virginia Shelton Signed 5″ Ceramic Pitcher – Vintage Seagrove, NC Pottery – Cobalt Blue

Handmade and signed 5″ pitcher by North Carolina folk artist Virginia Shelton

Virginia Shelton (1923–1991) is a celebrated eighth-generation potter from Seagrove, North Carolina. Born into the intertwined King and Cole families, she was the daughter of Bascom King—who married Vellie, sister of renowned potter Nell Cole—making her the niece of Waymon and Nell Cole, and granddaughter of J.B. Cole, the founder of the historic J.B. Cole Pottery.

As a skilled thrower at J.B. Cole’s Pottery, Virginia worked alongside her relatives, often throwing pots barefoot in the open studio. Known for her generous spirit, she mentored aspiring potters in the 1970s, sharing techniques that preserved Randolph County’s multi-generational craft heritage. After J.B. Cole Pottery closed, Virginia continued at Shelton Pottery, established in 1988 by her son Mitchell.

Her work truly embodies the legacy of her family’s pottery lineage. These unique handmade pieces blended traditional North Carolina folk pottery styles with subtle modern elements, making them highly collectible today.

Signed on the underside: “VS”

Likely made at Shelton Pottery in Seagrove, NC – Year unknown

This creamer / syrup pitcher features a beautiful blue glaze with a pinched spout and a thin, flat, wide handle in the traditional Cole pottery style.

Excellent pre-owned condition for its age. No chips or cracks. Please see photos for details.

Size: Approximately 5″ height, 4″ width

Colors: Royal / Navy / Cobalt Blue