Stoneware Jug ‘Griffin and Cherub’ by Ridgway & Sons, c. 1808

This rare and stunning antique stoneware jug features finely detailed applied scenes of griffins and cherubs. Below the rim, grapevines laden with fruit encircle the jug. The figures and decorative elements were molded from cream clay and applied to the ware body before firing, a decorative technique known as sprigging. The spout is adorned with a man's head. The jug has a smear glaze on the exterior and a full glaze on the interior. Known as drabware, this jug dates back to the early 1800s and was made by Ridgway of Cauldon Place, Shelton, Staffordshire. The base is pad-marked with pattern No. 35.
This 'Dutch' jug shape was introduced in the early 19th century and quickly became a favorite among pottery and porcelain manufacturers. The decorative frieze on the side of this jug is copied from a classical design found in "Etchings Representing the Best Examples of Ancient Ornamental Architecture," published by C.H. Tatham in 1803.
The Ridgway firm was one of the versatile family potteries that rose rapidly to prominence after the perfection of bone china around 1800. The recent concentrated period of industrialization, including significant improvements to the canal system pioneered by Josiah Wedgwood, created lucrative opportunities. While some potters, such as Enoch Wood, amassed great wealth by mass-producing ordinary pottery for export, others like Ridgway, Spode, and Davenport produced both pottery and porcelain of the highest quality and had the confidence to mark their products.
Ceramics with surprising ground colors were popular during the Regency period; along with many shades of blue, mint green, purplish-red, ginger, and drab yellow were also fashionable. Stoneware clays, which could be stained to showcase sharply molded applied ornament without obscuring glaze and could withstand rough handling, became particularly popular. As demand grew, so did the variety, but quality declined. From about 1830, fully molded stoneware jugs were mass-produced in Staffordshire and elsewhere. The Ridgway family was one of the significant dynasties in Staffordshire pottery, with many family members and business names involved from the 1790s to the late 20th century.
This is a very rare specimen. A similar jug is in the collection of the Victoria and Albert Museum. However, while the museum holds a John and William Ridgway example, we offer an even rarer piece made by Job Ridgway & Sons at Cauldon Place, Shelton, Staffordshire.
Dimensions:
Height: 10.9 cm
Width: 16 cm
Depth: 11 cm
Weight: 280 grams
Condition: Small chip on the bottom rim. Otherwise, in excellent antique condition.
Please carefully review the accompanying photographs as they form an integral part of this description. The item will be shipped with full tracking and insurance. Please note that shipping costs include labor, packaging, and postage.