Fosters Studio Pottery Gurgle Fish Jug - Treacle Glaze, Cornwall, England c.1970

Fosters of Redruth is one of Cornwall's most enduring and characterful studio potteries, producing handmade earthenware from the heart of the county since the 1960s. Founded by Adam Foster in Redruth — a town with deep roots in Cornish craft and industry — the pottery became known for its expressive, tactile work that felt rooted in the landscape and traditions of the far South West. Their gurgle fish jugs are among the most recognisable pieces in the British studio pottery canon, beloved by collectors and visitors to Cornwall in equal measure.

Tilt one to pour and it produces a distinctive liquid gurgle, drawing air through the circular aperture in the tail as liquid flows from the open beak-shaped spout. It is a piece that genuinely delights people — sculptural, tactile, and fun to use in equal measure.

This example is finished in a rich treacle glaze — deep chocolate brown with swirling amber and cream streaks that shift beautifully in the light. The modelling is confident and expressive: a stylised fish form with a scrolled eye detail, swept tail fin forming the handle aperture, and a dramatic upswept mouth as the pouring lip. Fosters Studio / Cornwall / England / Pottery backstamp to the base.

A proper Cornish piece with real character and the kind of story that sells itself.

Gurgle fish jug form — produces a liquid gurgle sound when pouring. Rich treacle glaze with swirling amber and cream streaks. Sculptural fish form with swept tail, circular aperture and upswept beak spout. Scrolled eye detail to head. Fosters Studio / Cornwall / England / Pottery backstamp to base. Handmade earthenware. Made in Redruth, Cornwall.

Light wear consistent with age. Glaze in excellent order, no chips or cracks noted.