Name/Title
PitcherEntry/Object ID
2023.26.1Description
Pitcher, creamware with black transfer-printed and enameled decoration. One side has a oval dark black transfer-print image commemorating George Washington and including symbols of his leadership. A central medallion with a portrait of Washington is wreathed in laurel leaves and held up by Victory supported on the right by Liberty and on the left by blind Justice. A winged angel holds a banner with the name "Washington" above which is an American eagle. A "Chain of States" border with the names of 15 states printed on a ribbon looped over stars with the aforementioned eagle at the top above "New Hampshire" surrounds the medallion. On the other side, is another black transfer-printed image of a square-rigged sailing vessel with three masts and multiple sails all fully extended, having a black hull with a yellow horizontal band. A full-length female figurehead is depicted with her right arm extended in greeting and her blue gown billowing behind showing a white petticoat underneath. The clothing of the figures on the deck is depicted in red and blue enamel. An American flag with 15 stars flies at the stern and a stars and stripes pennant flutters from the mainmast. The water is a blue-green wash over the black print. The spout has a stylized leaf and flower motif in brown enamel, fanning out from a brown oval at the base of the spout. Below the mouth "S. COIT." is written in enamel between two lines of a husk-type pattern and encased within a wreath of leaves tied at the bottom with a bow. The ear-shaped rounded strap handle is outlined at the sides in brown enamel as is the rim; a brown enamel band encircles the pitcher near the base.Context
The image of Washington may have been taken from the portrait by Edward Savage, painted in 1789 for Harvard University. The Chain of States was first seen on Continental currency; the design was created by Benjamin Franklin and published in February 1776. The chain of 13 links symbolized the transition from a loose confederation to a strong Union. The original chain design was freely adapted by English engravers and printers, often using ribbons or trailing leafy branches. The list of states includes Kentucky, the 15th state, achieving statehood on 1 June 1792.Made/Created
Date made
circa 1792 - circa 1812Dimensions
Dimension Description
Overall, as if to fit in a box.Height
9-1/4 inWidth
9-1/4 inMaterial
Earthenware, Lead glaze, Enamel, Ink
