Antique Staffordshire saltglaze pottery bear jug circa 1750

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£3500

Dated: 1750 Staffordshire England

A salt-glazed stoneware pottery jug in the shape of a bear, with a dog attached to its chest. These figures appear whimsical, but in fact portray the cruel yet popular sport of bear-baiting, a legal recreation in England until 1835. These rare figures served as ale jugs, tobacco jars, or even pub ornaments; the body of the jug held the contents while the head covered the opening or served as a drinking cup. Today they provide a social commentary of the 18th century period in England.

Dimensions: 9.5 inches high

Current Condition: Some restorations at snout, tail,rim,chain.

Literature: Figure 84 page 113 from the Goldweitz Collection in White Salt-glazed STONEWARE of the British Isles by Diana Edwards and Rodney Hampson.

£3500    $4725

Description

A salt-glazed stoneware pottery jug in the shape of a bear, with a dog attached to its chest. These figures appear whimsical, but in fact portray the cruel yet popular sport of bear-baiting, a legal recreation in England until 1835. These rare figures served as ale jugs, tobacco jars, or even pub ornaments; the body of the jug held the contents while the head covered the opening or served as a drinking cup.
Today they provide a social commentary of the 18th century period in England.

Additional information

Dimensions 9.5 in