Jug (Pitcher)

Description

This so-called canaryware jug reproduces an elaborate satirical print celebrating the fall of Napoleon Bonapart in 1814. This version is transfer-printed in red over the glaze. Variations are known with polychrome decoration. The neck of the jug bears the inscription "PEACE and PLENTY." An elaborate outdoor scene encircles much of the vessels belly and features numerous figures with associated speech bubbles (some transcribed here). From right to left, a portly man stands holding a pipe and stating (script) "May that man [be] / kicked to Death / by Fleas who / dares disturb / this happy Company." To his left is a tableclothed table with three men and a woman drinking and about to enjoy a meal. One of the male figures says "Silence! the Doctors desire / me to advise moderation they / think 12 Bunds of meat and / 12 gallons of ale is / as much as you / should take / at a time." A male and a female servent arrive to their left with more food and drink. Next, to the left, two men (one with a beer mug in hand) overhang a large barrel inscribed "Full to the Bung my Boys / 200 Gallons / NB. Brewed by John Bull the beginning / of the War to be tapped the first / day of Peace." Next, to the left, a man with a raised mug inscribed "Peace" declares "May the Friends of / Boney never wet their / lips with mellow ale / say I." Ending the scene, at the far left, a French(?) soldier perhaps representing Napoleon Bonapart holds a spilling mug inscribed "PLENTY" and says "Heres to England / and France all [them?] / Brothers and Sisters."