Antique Elsmore Forster Ironstone Puzzle Jug Circus Carnival Harlequin Clown

Description

Antique 19th century British ironstone puzzle jug or pitcher featuring whimsical clowns, harlequins, and circus performers. Features a unique design: by plugging the hole with your finger along the interior of the handle, pitcher can be filled with liquid and poured like a traditional vessel, but once the finger is released, the liquid will spill from the base of the jug on an unsuspecting recipient. The interior of the vessel has a pipe with a hole that will siphon the liquid through the base once the finger on the handle is removed. Made by Elsmore and Forster sometime between 1855 and 1871. The date on the jug with initials of "H. B." just above the flower is a commemorative date of "1804," not when the piece was made.
Hallmarks: Base is stamped "Warranted Ironstone China - Elsmore & Forster."
Dimensions: Length 7 1/4" x Width 6 1/2" x Height 8 5/8".
Weight: 2 lbs. 2.5 oz.
Condition: Good antique condition. Crazing to glaze throughout. Minor surface scratches and faint abrasions to edges. Tiny hairline crack to right side of rim. A few areas of discoloration. Flea bite chip to tip of handle.