David Drake (potter)

[3][4][5] During the time in which he was working, most enslaved people were illiterate, often as a result of anti-literacy laws, making his inscriptions particularly notable.

Most southern states in the early 1800s restricted black literacy, and in 1830s legislation was passed laws prohibiting their education.

[8] South Carolina's Negro Act of 1740, prohibited teaching enslaved Africans to read and write, punishable by a fine of 100 pounds and six months in prison.

believe that Dave remained in Edgefield because either he was too important a potter to leave Pottersville or that he was unable to make the journey due to his missing leg.

[8] During the period of his enslavement by Franklin Landrum, Drake's wares were not inscribed and no poetry is thought to have been produced.

During the time Drake produced his largest amount of wares that included poetry,[8] Miles' factory was known as "Stony Bluff".

"[12] Twenty of Drake's jars and jugs are inscribed with original poetry and 50 additional vessels reveal his signature, maker's mark, date, and other inscriptions.

The well known inscription, "I wonder where is all my relations / Friendship to all—and every nation", demonstrates Drake questioning his heritage and personal history.

This contemplation signifies Drake's positivity despite facing the many brutalities of slavery, including the loss of personal identity.

[1][15] It is believed that the inscriptions Drake included on his works were used as a method of personal expression, communication with other slaves, and even defiance to the institution of slavery.

[1] Some collectors and scholars have suggested that Drake's poetry should be characterized as an early act of sedition in the cause of civil rights, because at the time it was generally forbidden for African-Americans to read and write.

In 2010, the children's book Dave the Potter: Artist, Poet, Slave was written by Laban Carrick Hill and illustrated by Bryan Collier.

In this exhibition, Gates used Drake's work to address issues of craft and race in African-American history.

In 2023, a new book on his life and work, Praise Songs for Dave the Potter: Art and Poetry for David Drake, was published by academic Gabrielle Foreman through University of Georgia Press.

One of the many jars created by Dave. This one is inscribed with "Lm may 3rd 1862 / Dave"
David Drake, I made this jar for cash, though it is called lucre trash . Alkaline glaze stoneware, 1857.
Storage jar - 1858 - in Metropolitan Museum of Art collection