Antique English Majolica Graduated Bear Syrup Jugs by Joseph Holdcroft, 1875, Set of 3

Details

Description

A rare complete set of three graduated Victorian majolica syrup jugs, modelled as bears and produced by Joseph Holdcroft in … Read more A rare complete set of three graduated Victorian majolica syrup jugs, modelled as bears and produced by Joseph Holdcroft in Longton, Staffordshire, circa 1875. The set includes the small, medium and large versions of this distinctive novelty form.

Each seated bear holds a large ladle forming the rim and neck of the jug, while the separate honey-dipping spoon at the reverse forms the handle. The open mouth serves as the pouring spout. Expressive faces, paws and textured fur show the particularly naturalistic modelling for which Holdcroft's best majolica is valued.

After training at the Wedgwood Institute and working for 18 years at Minton, Holdcroft established Sutherland Pottery at Daisy Bank, Longton, in 1870. All three jugs retain their vivid pink majolica interiors, and each unglazed base bears the deeply impressed LILI cipher. Complete sets of all three sizes are rare, particularly with every tooth intact.

Dimensions: Large jug: height 34 cm, width 16 cm, depth 23 cm, weight 2290 g. Medium jug: height 29 cm, width 13 cm, depth 19 cm, weight 1700 g. Small jug: height 21.5 cm, width 10 cm, depth 14.5 cm, weight 767 g.

Condition: All three jugs are in excellent antique condition and have been examined under UV light. All teeth are intact. See less