Rare Shape Dr Wall / First Period Worcester Porcelain Milk Jug / Water Ewer C.1770

An unusual Worcester porcelain ewer form milk jug, of pear shape with large flared lip and raised double grooved strap handle. Printed with the Fence pattern with a simple painted line running inside the rim. Those familiar with the pattern will be aware the two flying birds are a fluid feature and can be placed in various positions, and angles, dependent on the shape of the article. In this instance, they are winsomely tucked under the side of the flared spout which is just so charming! Crescent mark to the base, c.1770.

This jug is essentially a miniature version of the water ewers that accompanied wash basins used in bed chambers. I haven't come across another of this shape and size before, clearly designed for table use and cannot find another example documented. Some early cream jugs had a raised spout with pixie ear handle, but were not of this form and were only 3"-3 1/2" high and the standard form for this period was the well known sparrow beak jug.

Reference: Sandon, plate 21 and Zorensky, Spero, plate 658 show examples of the larger 8 3/4" water ewers. Spero, plate 493 is an example of the documented raised spout, pixie handled jugs, showing the clear difference in form from this small ewer.

It measures 13.3cm (5 1/4") high, 13cm (5 1/8") spout to handle and 7.5cm (3") wide across the belly.

In excellent condition with no damage, repair or restoration and minimal handling wear. There is a very short shrinkage line to the side of the handle at the upper terminal. The design has bled slightly during firing in a few places, the right hand side of the main fence image, the trees above the rock in the middle section and the higher of the two birds, but it isn't overly distracting and the rest of the design is nice and clear. The hand painted line inside the rim has clearly bled quite a bit more so.

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