Holt Antiques at Walsingham Mill
Rare 17th-Century German Antique Bellarmine Jug with Cobalt Blue Glaze Decoration, circa 1625-1675
Rare 17th-Century German Antique Bellarmine Jug with Cobalt Blue Glaze Decoration, circa 1625-1675
Couldn't load pickup availability
A rare and characterful 17th-century German Bellarmine jug, dating to circa 1625–1675, displaying the unmistakable features of Frechen stoneware: salt-glazed body, bold moulded mask, and decorative medallion work. This example is further elevated by its cobalt blue glaze decoration, a premium and visually arresting detail that immediately distinguishes it from more typical brown-glazed forms.
The jug retains excellent surface texture and glaze quality, with the blue pigment still vivid and expressive. The classic bearded mask — the “Bellarmine” or “Bartmann” face — is crisply defined, lending the piece a strong sculptural presence. These jugs were exported widely across Europe and the New World, used for wine, beer, and household storage, and later associated with apotropaic “witch bottle” practices.
A superb and rare survival with tremendous decorative and historical appeal.
Provenance: Germany. 17th-century.
Material: Salt-glazed stoneware.
Condition: Very good for age. Expected wear, firing irregularities, and glaze variations consistent with 17th-century Frechen stoneware. There is a very small mark on the body just above the foot rim (see images 1, 2 and 9) which looks like a small perforation. This is not the case. This is a splash of cobalt-blue glaze. No modern restoration is noted.
Dimensions: Height 29 cm (11.4 inches).
🚚✈️🚢 We ship worldwide!
You can buy with 100% confidence too!
We are a member of the following 4 Professional Associations:
1. LAPADA (London and Provincial Antique Dealers Association) – LAPADA is the UK’s largest trade association for professional art & antique dealers (representing approximately 500 UK dealer members). All items are backed by our LAPADA guarantee;
2. CINOA –Confédération Internationale des Négociants en Oeuvres d'Art, (or International Confederation of Art and Antique Dealers' Associations) is the world association of art & antique dealer associations (representing 5000 dealers from 32 associations in 22 countries);
3. The Norfolk & Suffolk Antique Dealers Association - Representing reputable, high quality antiques dealers based in Norfolk and Suffolk; and
4. FSB - Federation of Small Business.
Wish to purchase this item?
1. Buy online via this website; OR
2. Tel: 00 44 7551 383897 (line open 9.30 am to 5.30 pm Monday to Saturday UK time) where we can take payment over the phone.
Want further information about an item or wish to discuss shipping costs?
1. Email us via this website; OR
2. Email us via:
info@holtantiquefurniture.com
We will aim to respond and make contact with you within 24 hours of receipt of your enquiry.
🚚✈️🚢 Shipping & Customs Information
Please Note: Prices shown exclude customs clearance fees. Where applicable, these charges will be levied directly by your receiving courier, designated importer, or local government authority. These fees vary by destination and are the responsibility of the buyer. For guidance on potential charges, we recommend contacting your local customs office prior to purchase.
