Purple transfer Staffordshire is harder to find than the more common blue, but it is surely as attractive and adds nice variety. This pitcher is decorated with a hamlet scene in the round. Greek keys separate the major design elements. Its octagonal form flares out from the mouth where it flanges near the base. The angular applied handle rises above the mouth to give it fancy airs. The quality of this production can be seen by decoration on the interior of the mouth.
The condition of this pitcher is structurally excellent, an unusual feat for ceramic wares of this age, but there are discolorations near the base due to manufacturing issues. There is also the usual discoloration and wear of finish due to age and use.
The underside is stamped with the first style British registry mark, dating this pitcher to c. 1855.
5 3/8" h