Patriotic Creamware Tankard with Washington and Franklin Allegory
England, circa 1800 - Height: 6 inches
 
A creamware tankard transfer-printed with a patriotic allegorical composition centered on a globe depicting North America. The scene features George Washington accompanied by a female figure representing Liberty, while above Fame sounds a trumpet beside an American flag. At right, Benjamin Franklin is shown seated with book in hand, completing the symbolic grouping associated with the founding of the United States.
 
The caption below reads: “1. Fame. 2. Washington securing Liberty to America. 3. Wisdom & Justice dictating to Dr. Franklin.” Designs of this type were produced for the American market around 1800, reflecting contemporary demand for ceramics celebrating the leaders and ideals of the early republic.
 
Condition: Very fine, light staining on the rim. No restoration.