Antique English Doulton Lambeth Short Ceramic Motto Jug. Curved handle and wide straight mouth with a pouring space opposite the handle. A green field on top and bottom of the piece are filled with snowflake-like decorations, while a wide band surrounds the center with a blue field and curving flared patterns throughout. A large round relief at the center of the band below the spout has a motto written inside it: "Here's to thee my honest friend wishing these hard times to mend." Marked on underside. 

Condition: Commensurate with age. Small crack on interior near top. 

Size: 6 x 4 1/2 x 7 3/4 in. 

Motto jugs, or "motto ware," are ceramic pieces decorated with wise, humorous, or inspirational sayings that first appeared in 19th-century England. The style reached its peak in popularity during the early 20th century in both England and the United States, with early pieces featuring simple stoneware and short sayings. Although the mainstream favored minimalism after the mid-20th century, certain elaborate examples from makers like Royal Doulton remain sought after by collectors, sustaining the tradition.

Commensurate with age. Small crack on interior near top. 

All items are sold AS IS. Lot and condition details are for descriptive purposes only. Sarasota Estate Auction is not responsible for errors and/or omissions of condition. The absence of a condition report does not imply that the lot is perfect or free from wear, flaws, or characteristics of age. Please bid according to your own expertise, or request any additional information and/or photographs you deem necessary.