Images(10)

Jug

Dateca. 1805

OriginEngland, Staffordshire

MediumLead-glazed earthenware (pearlware) with brown slip (Portobello-type ware)

DimensionsOH: 4 11/16"; OL: 5 3/8" (handle to lip); OW: 3 15/16".

Credit LineMuseum Purchase, Troy D. Chappell Fund

Object number2022-75

DescriptionJug: slightly stepped foot supports bulbous ovoid body that rises to straight neck; slightly flared and elongated pouring lip opposite squared ear-shaped handle applied to the neck and the waist of the body; the pearlware body covered with a brown slip on the entire exterior and the interior of the neck; transfer printed in yellow on the exterior and interior of the neck with a faux Fitzhugh-style chinoiserie pattern; the handle with transfer printed floral and geometric decoration; the body transfer printed with a chinoiserie pattern interrupted under the spout with a transfer printed medallion bearing a three quarter portrait of Admiral Lord Horatio Nelson surrounded by the words: “ENGLAND EXPECTS EVERY MAN TO DO HIS DUTY / ADML LD NELSON”.
Label TextOften referred to by collectors as Portobello-type ware because fragments were found in Portobello, subsequent archaeological research uncovered fragments of yellow transfer printed brown slipped pearlware at various potteries in the Staffordshire region of England. Archaeological evidence in Maryland and Virginia reveal its prevalence in America, some of the Maryland fragments matching the exact Asian-inspired pattern on this jug. Early 19th century newspapers up and down the Eastern seaboard record for sale jugs bearing medallions commemorating Admiral Lord Horatio Nelson’s battle and death at Trafalgar in 1805. This jug is an example of one such commemorative piece.
InscribedPortrait medallion of Admiral Lord Horatio Nelson surrounded by the words: “ENGLAND EXPECTS EVERY MAN TO DO HIS DUTY / ADML LD NELSON” in yellow transfer printed block letters.