Images(4)

Face Jug

Date1875-1925

OriginAmerica, Georgia or Texas (possibly)

MediumStoneware, salt-glazed, brown with Albany slip

Dimensions7 1/2" x 5 1/2" x 5 3/4" (19.2 cm. x 14.0 cm. x 14.6 cm.)

Credit LineGift of Miss Blanche Sprinkle in memory of her sister Vivian Sprinkle

Object number1958.900.1

DescriptionThe circular-based form barely swells outwards as it rises to a rounded top with top center spout, from which a handle descends to attach to the back of the "head" of the piece. The front is decorated with facial features: two small applied eyes, a somewhat Roman profile, blunt-ended nose, long flat lips, and two ears. Except for face section, bottom, and spout, the entire vessel is decorated with incised striations that--except for sections of diagonal lines below the ears--run vertically. Salt-glazed stoneware of gray-green to brown color.
Label TextThe small size and incised lines that suggest hair covering the crown, neck and back of the head of this distinctive face jug have not been found on other American face vessels although earthenware and stoneware objects decorated with facial features have been made over a wide geographical area. The clay color and use of salt-glaze over Albany slip suggest a North Carolina or Georgia origin, but it also possible it is of Texas origin.
ProvenanceBequest of Miss Blanche Elizabeth Sprinkle.

Exhibition(s)