Antique Wedgwood Blue Jasperware Classical Relief Pitcher 18cm

This attractive antique Wedgwood pitcher is a fine example of the firm’s classic blue jasperware, decorated with applied white reliefs in the neo‑classical taste. Standing approximately 18 cm high, it has a generous rounded body that rises to a slightly waisted neck and an everted lip with a shaped pouring spout. The rich matte cobalt‑blue ground provides an elegant contrast to the crisply moulded white decoration that encircles the body.

A continuous frieze of classical figures in high relief runs around the middle of the jug. Graceful draped female figures, children and putti are shown in various allegorical scenes, interspersed with trees, shrubs and flowering plants. Typical of Wedgwood’s late 19th‑ and early 20th‑century jasper designs, the figures display fine modelling with clearly defined folds to the drapery, expressive faces and carefully detailed attributes such as staffs, garlands and animals. The reverse shows a particularly attractive large tree and floral grouping, giving the piece visual interest from every angle.

Above and below the figural band are matching borders composed of repeating floral medallions within an open interlaced framework, another hallmark Wedgwood motif. These borders provide a strong architectural frame for the narrative scenes and emphasise the classical symmetry of the design. The loop handle is enhanced with a vertical spray of acanthus leaves in white relief at the upper terminal, continuing the classical theme and giving a pleasing tactile quality when the jug is held.

The interior is a pale, lightly glazed off‑white, typical of utilitarian jasperware service pieces. The underside bears impressed marks, including ENGLAND and accompanying date or shape codes, confirming manufacture by Wedgwood for export. The impressed marks suggest a late Victorian or Edwardian production date, consistent with the style of modelling and the proportion of the piece.

Overall condition is good for an antique jasperware pitcher of this age. The blue ground remains strong and even, with no evidence of over‑painting. There is some expected surface dirt and light wear to the high points of the white relief, particularly around the borders and raised figures, which could be carefully cleaned if desired. The rim shows age‑related discolouration and a few minor firing or glaze imperfections visible in the close‑up images, but no obvious structural cracks or significant restoration are apparent from inspection of the photographs. The base ring has typical scuffing and kiln marks from long‑term use and shelf contact.

This 18 cm Wedgwood jasperware pitcher would make an excellent addition to a collection of English neo‑classical ceramics. Its manageable size allows it to display well on a mantel, in a cabinet, or alongside other blue and white jasper pieces. It is equally suited to use as a small water or wine jug, or as a decorative vase for a modest arrangement of flowers, provided care is taken to protect the relief work. For collectors, the combination of the deep blue ground, well‑executed classical friezes and clear impressed factory marks makes the jug a desirable and versatile example of Wedgwood’s enduring jasperware tradition.