Rare 1941 Arnold Machin for Wedgwood Winston Churchill Mug

Details

Description

An exceptional and rare piece of mid-century British history, this Wedgwood Queensware Commemorative Tankard is dedicated to Prime Minister Winston … Read more An exceptional and rare piece of mid-century British history, this Wedgwood Queensware Commemorative Tankard is dedicated to Prime Minister Winston Churchill. Modeled by the celebrated British sculptor and ceramic designer Arnold Machin (RA), this striking piece of patriotic wartime propaganda beautifully balances historical significance with sophisticated, classical design. Crafted in a matte corporate sky-blue hue, the tankard features crisp, cream-colored sprigged bas-reliefs—a stunning presentation that displays beautifully on a library bookshelf, executive desk, or a curated bar cart.

Design & Iconography

The tankard showcases masterful relief work across its body:

The Churchill Profile: A beautifully rendered, cream bas-relief profile portrait of Sir Winston Churchill in mid-thought, complete with his iconic cigar.

The Lion Rampant: The opposing side features a bold heraldic British Lion Rampant, a classic symbol of national fortitude and courage.

Historic Inscriptions

This piece is uniquely striking because it integrates two of Churchill’s most defining wartime declarations:

Around the Lower Rim: Crisply embossed text reads, “Give us the tools and we will finish the job”. This was excerpted from his crucial radio broadcast on February 9, 1941, directly appealing to President Franklin D. Roosevelt for the Lend-Lease aid that turned the tide of World War II.

Stamped on the Bottom (Base): The underside features the complete, stirring climax of his immortal June 4, 1940 speech to the House of Commons following the Dunkirk evacuation: “...We will fight on the seas and oceans. We shall fight on the beaches. We shall fight on the landing grounds, in the fields, in the streets and in the hills — We shall never surrender.”

Maker’s Marks & Provenance

The base carries the standard mid-century circular backstamp: "Of Etruria & Barlaston / Wedgwood / Made in England" alongside an additionally impressed “Made in England” glaze mark. This combined backstamp dates the piece to the historic transitional era of the company as production was shifting between their original Etruria works and the modern Barlaston facility.

Dimensions & Condition
Dimensions: Approximately 4.25” Height x 3.75” Diameter (excluding handle).

Condition: Excellent vintage/antique condition. The blue and cream matte finish remains clean, vibrant, and entirely free of any chips or repairs. Light, age-appropriate shelf wear to the unglazed foot. See less