Milk Pail, Standard Willow Pattern

Item Number: M31
Shape Type: Milk Pail
Pattern Name: Standard Willow Pattern
Date: c. 1882-1890
Dimensions:  D 16″, H 14″
Maker:  Doulton
Maker’s Mark: Printed

Description:
A large earthenware milk pail printed with the Standard Willow pattern. Two pairs of birds were used to fill the space on both sides of the words “PURE MILK” which have been hand painted on the piece. It has molded and decoratively painted handles. The large container is covered with a brass hinged-lid under which hangs a brass plunger. When the lid was raised and lowered, the plunger would stir the milk. An original half pint measure accompanies the pail. It is believed that there would have been two measures and that they were commonly hooked and hung over the handles. Made for Dairy Outfit Co., Ltd., Kings Cross, London, it would have been provisioned to  retail dairy shops.  It is a rare item as few examples of this type have survived. Attributed to Doulton who served as manufacturer for the Dairy Outfit Co.
Condition: Very Good. An old brass staple repair is found on the reverse.