Sold for A$40
The Old Sarum Kettle, Made by Doulton only for Watson & Co, Salisbury. Pottery Doulton Salt glaze, chocolate top, tan body. Unusual symbol on one side. Wooden stopper for the wide spout. 265 mm. 1890s
Mint. Sarum was the original settlement of England and now the city of Salisbury. This item is a reproduction, but not in the modern sense! It is a copy of the original which was presented to the museum of Salisbury in the 1890's. The original is believed to be an olive oil pitcher from North Africa. It has a loop handle at the top, a spout on one side, and a funnel-like filler on the other. The original vessel had no ancient link at all with Salisbury. Many items were made for a Salisbury firm, Watson & Co. for sale to tourists. This has an emblem in relief at the shoulder. The mark is of merchant John Halle, wool merchant and Mayor of Salisbury in the late 15th century. It incorporates a staple, probably as symbol of the wool trade and a cross, circle and triangle as symbols of Christianity, eternity and the Trinity. Back to the item itself, a couple of tiny nicks can be found, but only just. Chip like mark under base is small and likely a pottery pull. Some splits from making have been glazed over. Fascinating piece which although is a reproduction, is over 100 years old! Grade: 9.7 Estimate: $50 - 75
