Spiritually Uplifting Friar Appraisal

Beam's Choice 'Spiritually Uplifting' Friar Bourbon Decanter

A vintage Jim Beam bourbon whiskey decanter produced for the Beam's Choice collection. The piece is constructed from ceramic with a monochromatic blue and white glaze, likely a salt-glazed or stoneware style, featuring a shaded 'blue cloud' effect. The figure depicts a jovial, laughing monk or friar holding a bottle in his right hand and a small cup or chalice in his left. Notably, the front of the habit features the whimsical embossed text 'Spiritually Uplifting' in a serif typeface. The monk stands upon a domed, textured base with a mottled finish. He is wearing traditional sandals (zori style), and his robes include a corded belt detail on the side. The construction is a two-piece assembly where the head and shoulders serve as the stopper, fitted with a cork seal. Based on the style and typical production runs for James B. Beam Distilling Co., this piece likely dates from the late 1960s to mid-1970s. The condition appears excellent with no visible cracks, chips, or significant glaze crazing. The high-gloss finish remains vibrant, and the molding details on the face and hands demonstrate a higher grade of commercial ceramic craftsmanship for the period.