$11,163
Liverpool Creamware Jug, England, early 19th century, black transfer printed and painted with polychrome enamels, obverse "Boston Fusiliers" (McCauley 251), depicting an officer in full uniform, holding the Massachusetts flag within an oval inscribed at the top "Aut Vincere Aut Mori," and at the bottom "Success to the Independent Boston Fusiliers, Incorporated July 4th, 1787. America for ever.," Masonic devices surmount the design; reverse "Union" (McCauley 203), an oval design, with the allegorical figures of Liberty, Justice, and Peace above the inscription "United We Stand - Divided We Fall," above figures in an oval, the design surrounded by a wreath with sixteen stars and surmounted by an American eagle, beneath the spout is a floral device, (2-inch base chip, very minor discoloration and enamel losses), ht. 9 1/2 in. Exhibit history: Museum of Fine Arts, Boston, 1943. N.B. The Boston Fusiliers, a military organization, was formed shortly after the Revolutionary War by a group of fifty officers and veterans, adopting this colorful uniform. The organization existed for many years providing militia companies for service,and taking part in parades and celebrations. It is reported that in 1790 a wealthy officer ordered a limited number of specially decorated Liverpool pitchers for presentation to each member of the company. Copies of a small group of letters and related material accompany the lot.
Auctioneer:
Skinner
Date:
2002-06-09
