English Majolica

Beer / Cider Jug

Early 20th Century

Circa: 1910 (1905-1915)

Size: 5 ½ inches or 14 cm. Tall

 (Approximate Size).

The jug is barrel shaped with raised pattern decoration, it is shaped as a barrel with a central band such as a cooper would place on a barrel (they have even given a suggestion of rivets in the band). Over the surface there is also a raised grid work, representing a gardeners trellising I think. There is also clear relief moulded leaf decoration around the handle, and forming the spout.

The jug is coloured in green and a yellow-brown glaze. The colour has pooled pleasingly in places, catching in the raised relief work, as it was meant to do. This means that the jug is actually many shades of green and yellow-brown.

What does Majolica mean? Majolica wares were first produced by the Minton’s factory about 1850, in imitation of medieval and renaissance Miaolica. It was originally a pottery produced with a soft white body decorated with colourful translucent glazes. The glazes were the true secret of success, not only were the colours brilliantly stunning they could all be applied at once, so that the decoration took only one firing. Later the term became widely used for any item with a translucent glaze that gave a similar effect. This seems to be a piece made in the true Majolica fashion, with a base white glaze under the translucent brown and green above. You can actually see the white in places peeking through (as you should do).

EXCELLENT COLLECTOR’S GIFT!

Why not treat a loved one, or yourself?

Manufacture: English, early 20th century. Circa 1910 (1905 - 1915).

This piece is actually unmarked, but I have stocked one of these jugs which was marked “Made in England” on the base before, a term which means this is almost certainly after 1900.

The maker is unknown, but I would hazard a strong guess at this being Wardle & Co. (Ltd.), whose works were in Washington, Hanley, in the Staffordshire potteries (1871-1935).

Wardle’s manufactory were well known for their majolica production, and whilst not as celebrated as Minton’s or George Jones’ wares their majolica was of a very good standard, and if I am correct this is a fine example of their production.

Condition: Generally Very Good, however apart from the expected crazing there are two hairline cracks in the rim of the jug, and a very small chip. However Majolica wares are particularly notable for their propensity to collect damage, and this does not tend to affect the value greatly. This item is in reasonably good condition for Majolica.

GREAT  BUY!!!!!!

FURTHER PHOTOGRAPHS AVAILABLE UPON REQUEST.

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Postage / Shipping: I am sorry I can not give shipping costs in advance, but the winning bidder pays actual postage costs, plus just £1 towards packing. I will provide a range of shipping/ postage costs to the winner and they decide which option to use.