Antique “Frog/surprise Spitting Mug” Two Handled Ale Tankard

Traditionally manufactured betwen the mid to late 19th century,

This tankard has a dark “treacle” glaze.

Often identified as “rockingham treacle”,

However this could have been made in Staffordshire , where this glaze was often used on “ale” earthenware.

The external sprigware clearly shows a gentleman sitting at a table to enjoy a jug of ale. His clothing is clearly representative of this period. On the reverse side it clearly shows the gentleman “worse for wear” hanging “over a barrel”.

Either sides of the two handles are flowers clearly representing England rose, Ireland shamrock/clover and Scotland , thistle.

These tankards first appeared around the last 1/4 of the 18th century. In Taverns.

Ales and ciders during this period were unfiltered and cloudy.

Therefore as the drinker got to the bottom of the tankard the amphibian would emerge…

Sometimes as in this mug the frogs were hollow and had small holes.

This then created a spitting effect from the frogs when the drinker attempted to drain the mug/tankard the frog would appear to spit the drugs back at the drinkers face.

Also superstitious folklore suggested that fevers , or shivering illness’s could be cured with a shock !! And these mugs were sometimes used to “cure” sickness.

The tankard is a hefty piece of pottery

Extending 22cmmfrommhtipnofneach handle.

It stands approx 13cm tall and has a diameter of approx 13cm.

Two concealed frogs are modelled inside.

You are the new custodian, enjoy and treasure, this heirloom.

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