Rare Antique Barge Ware Tobacco Jar with Cover For Sale

The dark brown glazed earthenware pottery we now call barge ware was originally known as Motto Ware, and then Measham Ware, after the clay-rich area which had been producing pottery since the 13th century. The earliest pieces of this type date to 1870, with production ended by the beginning of the first World War.

The inclusion of the word, “barge,” came after it became popular with people living and working on the canal passing through the town of Measham. Passing barges, it is said, would order pottery from Mrs. Annie Bonas’ shop on Measham High Street (close to the town’s canal bridge) and collect it on their return journey after having it personalized with names and dates. Teapots were the favored items, but bowls, jugs and jars were also made.

Measham ware was a form of treacle ware that featured appliqued white sprigs decorated with flowers, foliage, fruit and birds in bright red, blue and green on-glaze coloring oxides. Today, the Measham Museum has a large collection of the ware. London’s Victoria and Albert Museum has an example on display.

Because barge ware was made with a high percentage of clay, even after firing pieces often chipped. Therefore, it is challenging to find good examples without showing their age; that is, without chips from use. This wonderful example has some pretty motifs in relief and exceptionally charming motto that says: “Be Strong and of Good Company.” It’s always nice to find an adorable motto on this type of piece.

The jar was designed with a wide rim on top with pretty blue markings on each white petal-like design. There are multiple flowers all around. Most of these have just blue centers, but there are several small bouquets that have pink and green colors added. All in all, it is a delightful jar that would look well in any collection.

This jar has a rich brown color and is highly glazed which sets off well the creams and blues of the motto and the flowers. The inside was painted the same brown and glazed as well.

This is a lovely example of this type of hand-finished pottery.

The condition is superb for its age and use. There is absolutely nothing to remark upon. As tobacco jars were under constant, everyday use, it is challenging to find one in such perfect condition. This one may have been a gift that was not used and placed in a display case to be admired. It certainly would be a welcome addition to any barge ware collection or on its own.

It measures about 5-½ inches high. The diameter at the bottom is 3-¼ inches, and that at the upper rim is 3-¾ inches.

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Perry-JoyceFine Arts

Expertisein 18th and 19th Century Needlework, British Paintings, and 19thCentury Decorative Arts with over 45Years’ Experience