Pa. German Jug c. 1937

Frances Lichten made this watercolor painting of a Pennsylvania German Jug in the 20th century. Lichten captures the earthy feel of the jug's likely material: earthenware, formed on a wheel, and covered in a lead glaze. This type of pottery was common in Pennsylvania German communities, prized for its durability and functionality. The glaze gives the jug its characteristic sheen and color, likely created from local materials and traditions. The inscription “BR 1792” suggests a personal or historical connection, possibly indicating the jug was a commemorative object. The tulip design, also rendered in the painting, is typical of Pennsylvania German folk art, adding to the jug's cultural significance. Lichten’s careful rendering acknowledges the work involved in creating functional and decorative pottery, a skill passed down through generations, challenging any rigid distinction between craft and fine art.