Pitcher
MakerMade by
Unknown
Date1800-1810
MediumWheel-thrown cream-colored earthenware with underglaze black decoration
DimensionsPrimary Dimensions (height x width x depth): 9 1/4 x 9 x 4 5/8in. (23.5 x 22.9 x 11.7cm)
ClassificationsCeramics
Credit LineGift of the heirs of Morgan B. Brainard
Object number1961.12.34
DescriptionBarrel-shaped pitcher of cream-colored earthenware, a type of ceramic known as creamware. This is known as a "Liverpool pitcher" because many creamware pitchers of this shape with black printed designs were known to have been made and exported to America from Liverpool, England. The pitcher has a flat base, swelled sides, and a narrower rim, with a spout opposite a pulled and applied handle. There are three groups of transfer-printed underglaze black decoration, one on each side, and another underneath the handle. An oval-shaped area to the left of the handle has scenes of mourning for George Washington. A banner above states "WASHINGTON IN GLORY", and a banner below states "AMERICA IN TEARS". Between these two banners is an image of a woman in Grecian-inspired dress, head bowed, leaning on an obelisk. A bird is also standing at the foot of the obelisk, perhaps a phoenix. A profile of a man pictured on the obelisk is labeled "GEORGE WASHINGTON/ Born Feb.y [smudged] 1702/ Died Dec.r [smudged] 1799". There is a wreath above his head, and an urn sits on the top of the obelisk. In the sky above, the clouds part to reveal the rays of the sun. The scene is surrounded by willow trees. A scene showing Masonic symbols is printed to the right of the handle. Two corinthian columns support an arch that bears the words "Cemented with Love". An eye, sun, moon, angels, and a triangle are printed in the space below the arch. Many additional Masonic symbols are printed in the space around the arch, including a ladder, Noah's ark, a bridge, classical buildings, drafting equipment, a left hand, and a key, among others. The final, and much smaller, transfer-printed design is located below the spout. Above an elaborate compass is a banner with the words "Come Box the Compass". The pitcher has three connected chips in the rim of the spout and many light scratches on the outside glazed surfaces.
Status
Not on view
