West German Pottery Jug | Shape 201/11

- Height: 11 cm
- Length (spout to handle): 10 cm

- Excellent - This item is in excellent vintage condition.
- There are no chips, cracks, or post-production repairs.
- There's a small indentation on the rim, but it looks like a "kiln kiss" or a manufacturing flaw rather than a post-production chip, which is common in studio pottery.
- The rim and handle are smooth and well-preserved.
- Note that the minor surface pitting and tonal variations are intentional results of the salt-glazing process and serve as hallmarks of its authentic production.

1. Design and Features
- This jug showcases the iconic "Peacock Eye" motif, a staple of German folk-inspired modernism.
- The design is achieved through sgraffito, where patterns are hand-carved into the clay to create depth and shadow.
- The colour palette centres on earthy olives and deep oxblood reds, set against a neutral, stippled background.
- Its stout, globular body and tapered neck give it a grounded, architectural presence despite its compact size.

2. Craftsmanship
- The high-fired stoneware is finished with a traditional salt glaze.
- This process involves vaporising salt at high temperatures to create an incredibly durable, glass-like "orange peel" texture.
- The hand-finished details and visible mould marks on the base (Shape 201/11) represent the golden age of West German art pottery manufacturing.

3. Uses and Versatility
- While a functional vessel, this piece shines as a sculptural object for Mid-Century Modern (MCM) or Japandi interior styling.
- Dining: Use it as a unique creamer.
- Decor: Ideal for shelf styling, as a bud vase for dried wildflowers, or as a striking addition to a pottery collection.
- Gifting: A sophisticated choice for collectors of vintage European stoneware.

4. Cleaning & Care Instructions
Because this is a vintage salt-glazed stoneware piece, it is incredibly durable but requires mindful cleaning to preserve its "orange peel" texture and hand-painted details.
- Hand Wash Only: Avoid the dishwasher. The high heat and harsh detergents can dull the specialised salt glaze over time.
- Mild Detergent: Use a soft sponge and a gentle dish soap.
- Avoid Abrasives: Do not use steel wool or scouring pads, as these can leave microscopic scratches on the sgraffito (incised) design.
- Mineral Deposits: If used for water and lime scale builds up, a short soak in a 50/50 water and white vinegar solution will safely dissolve deposits without harming the ceramic.
- Dry Thoroughly: Wipe dry with a soft microfibre cloth to prevent water spots on the textured surface.