Pair of Genuine Antique Staffordshire Copper Lustre Jugs (c.1850)

Rare Pair of Genuine Antique Staffordshire Copper Lustre Jugs (c.1850)

​For sale is a beautiful pair of mid-Victorian copper lustre jugs, dating to approximately 1850. These are authentic Staffordshire pieces, notable for their "fiery" metallic glow achieved by firing layers of copper and real gold into the glaze.

​The Designs

​Jug 1: Features the famous "Polka Dancers" (Spanish Dancers) relief—a highly collectible mid-19th-century motif.

​Jug 2: Features a charming scene of Children at Play.

​Both jugs are elegantly finished with hand-painted turquoise enamel scrolls and feature ornate, period-correct handles.

​History & Authenticity

​Origin: Staffordshire, England.

​Markings: These pieces are unmarked, which is the correct hallmark for genuine mid-Victorian lustreware. Unlike 20th-century reproductions (such as Wade), these early pieces rely on the quality of the relief and the deep orange-gold tone of the glaze to prove their age.

​Significance: Known as "the poor man's gold," these jugs were a staple of the Victorian parlor and represent the pinnacle of 19th-century English ceramic innovation.

​Dimensions & Weight

​Height: Approx. 15 cm

​Width: Approx. 12 cm (spout to handle)

​Weight: Approx. 450g per jug

​Condition & Price

​The "Children" jug is in excellent antique condition with no chips or cracks.

​The "Dancers" jug has a slight hairline crack. It remains structurally sound and displays beautifully, but the price has been lowered significantly to reflect this.

​Asking Price: €30 for the pair (Open to reasonable offers).

​Payment & Delivery

​Payment: I accept Revolut, PayPal, or Cash on collection.

​Shipping: Happy to ship nationwide via An Post. I take great care in professional, "bomb-proof" packaging to ensure they arrive safely.

​Collection: Available for "cash on call" pickup.

​A wonderful opportunity to own a 175-year-old piece of Irish/English social history. Please message me with any questions!