A Very Large Measham Pottery Barge Teapot and Cover c1890

Description

Heading :  A Measham Pottery Barge Teapot and Cover
Date : Circa 1890
Period : Victorian
Marks :Unmarked
Origin :Church Gresley. Derbyshire
Colour : ‘Rockingham’ treacle glaze with red and blue splashed appliques
Pattern : Composition of applied birds and flowers and central applique stamped ‘ God Bless our Home’
Features : Domed cover with miniature teapot finial
Condition :Good
Restoration :None
Dimensions : Height  28.5cms
Weight :2485 grams

Eric Knowles Comments

Although often described as ‘Bargeware’ the vast majority of such teapots. loving cups and jugs were intended for a much greater market that was facilitated by the Bargees who would pass by Measham on the Ashby canal and having taken orders en route would place them with the pottery and collect and distribute the finished article when next near Measham.

Such wares were also available through the shop in Measham  near the canal bridge owned by Annie Bonas. Although this example is unmarked some examples can be found bearing the mark of Mason.Cash and Co. Church Gresley

Many were commissioned for for weddings and other events such as the 1887 and 1897 Jubilees. In my opinion such teapots represent the best of Victorian ceramic folk art at affordable prices. The museum at Measham is well worth visiting and staffed by volunteers but is only open at certain times so do check before you travel.