Jug, 1891-1917, England, glazed earthenware, Bequest of Nella Moss, 1936.4.43.
This unusual vessel of a jovial, smiling man is referred to as a character jug. Character jugs were developed from the popular Toby Jugs of the late 1700s, but featured only the head of the figure, versus a standing “Toby” figure. This jug was used for pouring liquids; the man’s forehead is shaped into a spout and a handle is attached to the back of his head. The bottom of the jug is stamped with a crown and “S F & Co, England”, which refers to Simon Fielding & Co pottery manufacturer. The style of this pottery mark closely dates the jug to 1891-1917. S Fielding & Co. was in operation until 1982 in Stoke-on-Trent, England under their well known trade name of Crown Devon.