Jug 1852 - 1858

This jug was made by the United States Pottery Company, which formed in 1852. Looking at the jug's clean, white appearance, the subtle floral patterns, and the careful craftsmanship, you might see it as a celebration of beauty and refinement. But let's not forget the social context in which this object was produced. The mid-19th century was a time of enormous industrial growth and social change in the United States. With new technologies emerging all the time and new business models being tested, institutions like the United States Pottery Company were trying to stake their place in a rapidly changing world. They may have been trying to reach a new middle class who were keen to display their wealth and sophistication. These new consumers were looking for art that would announce their arrival in society. How interesting that this object is now in a museum. What does it mean to take something out of everyday use and place it on a pedestal? To find out more, look into the histories of consumerism, industrialization, and museum studies.