Not the best of shots (with the flash), but I quite like this mug/tankard (as seen in a theatre display case) with the trading clipper in full sail, off to brave the perils of the oceans to harbour in distant lands. It was in beautiful condition. The quote dates from around 1850 and the ceramic must be of a similar age. To be honest, I like any old potteryware with ships, boats or scenes of the sea upon them. I'm not sure which flag it's flying and it could have some naval significance, but it's most likely an American one to signify trade lines across the wide Atlantic.
The verse is as follows -
"May Peace & Plenty
On our Nation Smile.
and Trade with Commerce
Bless the British Isle."
@aj1268 Yes, i think so, Paula. Usually this verse is seen on plates of that age made between 1800 - 1849. I've never seen it on a mug before, it definitely looked of a similar age. I think it must be the same era.
I wonder how many bearded lips have sipped from this mug! On the right it almost looks like it says "Low Carb"! How some things never change... Love the illustrations and colours!
@tonje Low carb? You nut! :) I've just done a bit of research on the mug and the company that produced it, owned by John Dawson (Messrs Dawson & Company) It was called Low Ford pottery :) Interestingly, this pottery works was considered to be one of the best in the 1830's in the area producing items made of the finer white clay whereas up to that point brown clay was used. They built a flint mill on a local ford for grinding up flint colour, the water was found to be good for purification too, hence Low Ford Pottery was named. Another reason for their success was, and I quote, "One reason for Dawson’s success was the encouragement given to the work people bring their minds to bear on their work. They were encouraged to make new designs and these were passed through the oven for them without question or delay." This must have been quite innovative at the time, and probably still is
Oh, low ford makes much more sense! Yes, what an innovative work place. If only more employers these days encouraged their staff to "bring their minds to bear on their work"! I feel like I know much more about clay now and will be keeping an eye out for white clay pottery! :)
