Syrup Jug 1852 - 1858

This ceramic syrup jug with a pewter lid was created by the United States Pottery Company, which was founded in 1852. While seemingly a simple piece, it embodies the intersection of industry, artistry, and domestic life in 19th-century America. The jug’s molded decoration evokes a sense of natural abundance and pastoral beauty, reflecting the cultural values of the time. Such imagery offered a comforting contrast to the rapid industrialization transforming American society. The United States Pottery Company was part of a larger network of manufacturers that were striving to make decorative items affordable for a growing middle class. These institutions democratized access to aesthetically pleasing objects for the home. To truly understand the jug, we might consult period catalogs, business records, and design source books. These resources would shed light on the aspirations of its makers and the social context of its consumption. Ultimately, this jug reminds us that even everyday objects can offer valuable insights into the culture and institutions of their time.