Jug with men beneath arches c. 1580 - 1620

This stoneware jug, probably made by Jan Baldems Mennicken, is all about process. The grey-brown clay body was first shaped on a wheel, before being decorated with a series of incised and applied motifs. Look closely, and you'll see men standing under arches. These patterns weren't painted on, but rather impressed using molds. This technique speaks to a desire for efficient production, allowing for the replication of decorative elements. It's the ceramic equivalent of the printing press. The salt-glaze finish, achieved by throwing salt into the kiln during firing, gives the jug its characteristic mottled surface. While seemingly simple, this was a highly skilled tradition, requiring years of expertise to master. So, next time you see a piece like this, remember the many hours of labor and accumulated knowledge that went into its creation. It’s a reminder that even everyday objects can be rich with cultural and social significance.