Images(5)

Jug

Date1781 (dated)

OriginEngland, Staffordshire

MediumLead-glazed earthenware (cream-colored earthenware / creamware)

DimensionsOH: 6 1/2"

Credit LineMuseum Purchase, Wesley and Elise H. Wright in memory of Mr. and Mrs. Henry Clay Hofheimer II and in honor of John C. Austin

Object number2012-83

DescriptionBaluster form creamware jug with pedestal foot and strap handle. Decorated in red, green, yellow, and black over-glaze enamels with a floral rose pattern on the sides. An asymmetrical floral cartouche opposite the handle encloses the inscription "Confusion / to France & Spain / 1781." The rim of the jug and the top of the handle are embellished with chains of black leaves.
Label TextWhile this jug is decorated in a typical floral rose pattern, the inscription on it has significance to the political story of the American Revolution. In August of 1781, George Washington toasted the Kings of France and Spain in the residence of Robert Morris in Philadelphia. His toast paid homage to the assistance America had received from France and Spain, particularly from their navies. The inscription on this jug, which was clearly intended for the British market, encourages confusion to France and Spain. Here confusion is defined in a nautical sense. It is used figuratively as it often was in the mid-eighteenth century referring to a ship lost at sea, having no bearings and out of sight of land. 'At sea' and 'all adrift' have similar meanings. Hence the British are wishing confusion to the French and Spanish navies. This wish went unfulfilled in October of 1781 when the British were forced to surrender at Yorktown.
InscribedInscribed in black over-glaze enamel, "Confusion / to France & Spain / 1781"
ProvenancePurchased from Robert Hunter, Yorktown, Virginia