Mug, Camel and Castle

Item Number: J153
Shape Type:  Mug
Pattern Name:  Camel and Castle
Date: c.1810-1820
Dimensions: H 3.75″, D 3.75″
Maker:  Maker Unknown
Maker’s Mark: Unmarked
Description:
An earthenware mug printed in blue underglaze with the Camel and Castle pattern.  This is a good example of what is commonly referred to as Transitional Chinoiserie, as it combines design elements after the Chinese as well as British or Continental landscape features such as the castle and deer grazing on the lawn in front of the castle. Many of the design components are included in the border which is printed on both the interior and exterior of the mug. The pattern was documented in FOB Bulletn #40, p. 6, 1983 printed on a treacle jug.  Included in the pattern is a large building with crenelated roof within a fenced park, a three-arched bridge over a stream or lake on which swim two swans. Two Chinese figures stand to the left, a camel tethered to a male figure stands in front of a twin turreted portico, and a castle is seen on the crest of a hill in the background. Farther to the right on the lawn are two deer. A variety of trees are artistically placed around this complex scene.
Condition: Very Good.