Ridgways Coronation Commemorative Jug - King George V & Queen Mary, England, 1911

A striking piece of royal commemorative ceramics produced for one of the great set-piece moments of the Edwardian era — the coronation of King George V and Queen Mary on 22nd June 1911. Made by Ridgways of Stoke-on-Trent, one of the most established names in English pottery, this tall jug carries transfer-printed portrait medallions of both the King and Queen to opposing sides, set beneath a deep copper lustre glaze that darkens toward the base and catches the light beautifully.

George V is depicted in full military dress uniform with medals and decorations. Queen Mary is shown in tiara and pearl necklace — the composed, elegant portrait that appeared widely in coronation memorabilia of the period. The neck and handle are finished in a reflective bright lustre, creating a deliberate contrast with the darker body.

The base bears the Ridgways crossed arrows / England mark used from approximately 1905–1920, alongside pattern number 333. Three evenly spaced tripod firing marks are clearly visible — a detail that speaks directly to the traditional kiln firing methods of the period, when pieces were supported on three-pointed stilts inside the kiln during the glost firing. A small notch to the lip is believed to have been designed to seat a tea strainer when pouring — a practical detail that speaks to the everyday domestic use these pieces were made for, as much as their commemorative purpose. The glaze crazing is consistent with genuine early 20th century production and adds to the piece's authenticity.

A well-preserved example of a genre that captured the national mood of an era — and a genuinely handsome object in its own right.

Double-portrait commemorative jug — King George V to one side, Queen Mary to the other. Transfer-printed portrait medallions under copper lustre glaze. Bright reflective lustre to neck, rim and handle. Conical form with angular spout and loop handle. Small notch to lip — believed to be a strainer seat for use when pouring tea. Ridgways crossed arrows / England backstamp — used c.1905–1920. Pattern number 333 to base. Three tripod firing stilt marks to base — evidence of traditional kiln firing methods. Glaze crazing consistent with genuine age. Made in Stoke-on-Trent, England. 153mm tall.

Glaze crazing consistent with age. Some lustre wear to neck and rim. Portraits clear and well-preserved. No chips or cracks. Three tripod stilt marks to base from kiln firing.