Past Imperfect, The Art of Inventive Repair

This ceramic jug dates from the mid-1800’s and was most likely made in Staffordshire, England. It is completely covered in an abstract “agate” transfer design.

The original pewter lid remains, but the long gone ceramic handle has been remade out of tin. Jug measures 8-3/4″ tall.

The combination of the wood grain-like decoration and the wild metal straps make this 150 year old jug look quite modern.

This jug with similar agate transfer decoration and pewter lid still maintains its original loop-shaped handle.

Photo courtesy of eBay

What could be more English than a Toby jug? This example, most likely made by Copeland Spode around 1870 and much copied by other potters, is hand painted using polychrome overglaze enamels.

Jug measures 6-1/2″ tall by  7-1/4″ wide.

A sizable tin handle with thumb and fingers grips was made by a tinker, replacing the original ceramic handle which broke off over 100 years ago.

The Toby jug sitting at the far left atop of the chest of drawers in the painting The Latest Addition by Charles Spencelayh (1865-1958) bears a striking resemblance to mine.

Thanks to Robert Moores of NestEgg Antiques for sharing his knowledge of Toby jugs with me.