Antique Majolica Samuel Lear Lily of the Valley Fern Rope Pitcher Jug 8"

Description

Antique Majolica Lily of the Valley pitcher or jug by Samuel Lear. It features the Lily of the Valley flower on a neutral ground, with a butterfly, accented by an acanthus leaf spout and rope handle.

In 1877, Samuel Lear constructed a small pottery on Mayer Street in Hanley. The firm expanded into new premises on High Street in 1882 where majolica and other wares were produced. The business failed in 1886 and creditors closed both the Mayer Street and High Street Works. Thomas Forester purchased both potteries in 1887 although their subsequent disposition remains uncertain.

The known patterns of Lear include Sunflower and Urn, Lily of the Valley, and Pond Lily and Rope. None of these patterns ever beared marks, but Lear majolica can be documented by illustrated advertisements in the Pottery Gazette. Some pieces bear a British Registry Mark on a typically white under-surface.

Condition

Good Overall - wear/crazing/fading

Dimensions

5.5" x 5.5" x 8.25" (Width x Depth x Height)