Stoneware Jug Lantern Appraisal

Salt-Glazed Stoneware Jug Lantern

This item is a decorative salt-glazed stoneware jug lantern, standing approximately 10 to 12 inches tall. It is constructed from heavy, durable ceramic clay with a characteristic coarse, pitted texture known as orange peel, created by the salt-glazing process. The jug features a vertical strap handle and a traditional narrow mouth. A large oval aperture has been cut out from the body to reveal an interior chamber containing a small, raised circular candle holder. The exterior is a light cream/off-white color, decorated with hand-painted cobalt blue floral and leaf motifs, which are typical of 19th-century American stoneware styles. Visible ribbing on the interior walls indicates it was wheel-thrown. The condition appears fair with no major structural cracks or chips visible from this angle, though there is general surface grime and darkening from use, particularly near the top handle transition. This piece is a modern reproduction (likely late 20th century) of early American country pottery, designed to mimic primitive lighting fixtures. The craftsmanship shows consistent wall thickness and well-applied lug-style handle attachment, indicating contemporary production quality rather than an authentic antique piece.