Hand-painted Worcester ceramic jug: Statement of significance

The jug (Figure. 1) was produced by Grainger's Worcester porcelain company, possibly between 1805 and 1811 according to the factory mark. It was previously owned by a London vintage collector, Neil, who approached this item as part of an auction lot from Colwyn. He believes that this auction lot might come from a house clearance. 

Figure 1: The Jug

It is assessed to obtain the scientific and historic value that reflects the manufacturing technology and ownership history of the company, as well as the information related to previous owners during the circulation.  The cottage style decoration with a robin painting and the past repair also contain the aesthetic value.  As is engaged in the module study of a conservation student, the jug is given educational value in this context.

Through visual, auditory and UV light examination, the jug is in a structurally stable condition. Apart from deterioration such as breaks, gilding abrasion (Figure. 2) and stains, a crack throughout the jug body with lacing rivet repair (Figure. 3&4), a traditional ceramic restoration technique, is the main concern. The crack was probably caused by the thermal shock in domestic use. The lacing area is damaged and might cause further corrosion. It contains historic, scientific and cultural value considering the past restoration techniques and materials and reveals the development of conservation principles and practices when it comes to the debate of removing past repairs.

Figure 2: Break and Gilding Abrasion

Figure 3: Crack and Rivets

Figure 4: Lacing Condition