Olive-Green Transferware Masonic Creamware Jug from Staffordshire, 1800s

Details

Description

A tall staffordshire creamware masonic jug of circa 1800–1810, with a pronounced baluster body, wide loop handle and sharply formed … Read more A tall staffordshire creamware masonic jug of circa 1800–1810, with a pronounced baluster body, wide loop handle and sharply formed spout. Its slender proportions are uncommon for the form. The surface is decorated with light olive-green copperplate transfer printing, framed by green bands at the upper and lower edges.

the principal scene is a densely composed early masonic design. Jachin and boaz rise from the mosaic pavement beneath terrestrial and celestial globes, their shafts carrying "vide aude tace" and "sit lux et lux fuit". The eye of providence, sun, moon, stars, square and compasses with "g", open book, ladder, beehive and numerous tools form a complete symbolic setting. A coffin is placed at the base as a memento mori.

the reverse has a further scroll-framed masonic panel inscribed "deum time et regem honora" — "fear god and honour the king." a small third panel beneath the spout shows a bouquet of roses. The base retains a black paper collection label numbered "310". The jug was formerly part of a large private collection formed by an english gentleman.

dimensions
height: 22.8 cm
width: 24.5 cm
diameter: 17.5 cm
weight: 1075 g

condition
two small chips to the underside of the tip of the spout, one small chip to the footrim, and wear to the light olive-green printed decoration and green bands. Uv inspection did not reveal restoration. Otherwise in good antique condition. See less