Commemorative Pitcher

c. 1800

A commemorative pitcher (English, Liverpool, c. 1800) with a buff creamware body decorated on the sides with black transfer scenes commemorating the life of President George Washington (1731-1799). The transfer pattern on one side commemorates Washington’s military exploits, the General is shown in a central medallion with his sword raised and his foot on top of a lion, representing the defeated British Empire, in the background are soldiers and a sailing ship. Surrounding the medallion are military trophies and two American flags. Encircling the scene is a banner which reads “BY VIRTUE AND VALOR, WE HAVE FREED OUT COUNTRY, EXTENDED OUR COMMERCE, AND LAID THE FOUNDATION OF A GREAT EMPIRE.” On the opposite side is an oval medallion commemorating Washington’s death. The medallion is surrounded by a banner reading “WASHINGTON IN GLORY / AMERICA IN TEARS.” Pictured at center is a funerary obelisk topped by an urn, the obelisk bears an image of Washington in profile and his birth and death dates. At the base of the obelisk is a weeping female allegorical figure and an eagle with its wings spread and head bowed, in the background are two willow trees. Just below the spout on the front of the pitcher is an oval transferware medallion reading “A MAN / without example / A PATRIOT / without reproach.”

English, Liverpool

glazed earthenware (creamware)

9" x 9" x 6.25"

Gift of Miss Edith M.K. Wetmore, 1955.

PSNC.5005