A delightful archer tankard dating from the late 19th century hand sponged and stencilled with the number 13 and an attractive blue one white design.
 
These hard to source French pottery vessels, known as Archer Pots from their use in the military,  were originally utilitarian objects also used in workshops, kitchens, vineyards  throughout Frace in the late 19th and early 20th century.
 
Marked with bold hand-stenciled numbers and decorated with traditional cobalt striping and sponged circles, they were designed for everyday use rather than decoration,  which is precisely what gives them their enduring appeal today.
 
Each piece carries a direct connection with the worker who's personal number was on the pot.
 
They are attractive for the quiet beauty of honest craftsmanship: softly crazed glaze, hand-painted imperfections, worn typography, and a patina acquired through decades of practical use. No two examples age alike, making every vessel entirely unique.
 
Today, these pieces are highly sought after. Their simple graphic forms and restrained palette allow them to sit effortlessly in both rustic and contemporary homes. This country style is particularly popular in Paris at the moment.
 
Beautiful displayed individually or as a grouping, they are objects with soul,  authentic fragments of everyday French life that bring warmth, texture, and history into the modern interior.
 
This tankard or mug stands 5.5" tall and the jug is available separately. Please not the minor 'imperfections' from use over time, the glaze is gently crazed and there are minor signs of wear from so many years of use.