Brian Knapp Antiques

Description

An early-to-mid 18thC German antique stoneware jug, originating from Westerwald, Germany.
This particularly large example incorporates a manganese underglaze which highlights a reeded neck, over a baluster-shaped body and an applied strap handle. The central body is impressed with a large circular medallion embossed with initials "GR", between floral boughs and rests above the royal cipher of a classical winged cherub head. It is surrounded by a stylized border of contrasting cobalt blue and the grey triangles which radiate from its border. Further ‘sgraffito’ work outlines a series of stylized flower foliage and vine decoration which further enhance, frame, and balance the central decoration.
Made for the English market, these jugs enjoyed great popularity during the reigns of King George I (1714-1727) and King George II (1727-1760) as Georgius Rex (GR) is Latin for King George.