Originally made in Guernsey, the Channel Islands, these copper jugs are well loved by collectors. They are based on a traditional French design and have been continued for centuries.
They are made in a variety of sizes, usually in pints or ‘pots’. The bottom is often engraved with the maker’s mark and a capacity.
Origin
From Normandy, this polished brass milk jug was hand-crafted circa 1850. The outside of the stocky container was lightly textured by a technique called hammering, which gives the jug its distinctive look. Its mouth features a rolled lip that is mirrored by a protuberant ridge running along the circumference, and a thick handle rises from the decorative midsection. A molded lid with a riveted handle provides a secure seal, keeping any contents from spilling out.
Normandy is home to a long tradition of cider-making, dating back centuries. According to legend, Basque sailors introduced the Normans to cider as far back as the 6th century and, by the 17th century, the alcoholic beverage had become the first choice among Normans, overtaking cervoise (a type of traditional barley beer) in popularity.
There are a handful of distilleries around the area that produce cider, and many are family-run. Calvados Pierre Huet has been making apple cider and apple brandy since 1865 and is one of the top-notch producers in the region. You can also sample their pommeau, a preparation of apple brandy mixed with apple juice.
The next stop in your tour of Normandy’s famous cider region is a tiny farm and cabin that offers a taste of slow life. Parcel Tiny Houses in Cambremer are a short drive from Paris but offer an authentic, nature escape surrounded by apple orchards. The cabins are small but comfortable and come with a delicious breakfast that’s made from local Normandy products, including the region’s famous butter and calva.
Style
This tin-glazed, hand-crafted brass milk jug from Normandy, France is one of the many marvels of Rouen faience. Not only is the quality of this jar impressive, but it also has an enviable list of accolades, from being on display at the Museum of Fine Arts in Boston to receiving the honor of being part of an important collection of faience artefacts, some of which date back to the 1540s.
The normandy jug is the best known of the several different designs made by the likes of Louis-Marie Lante, an American émigré who was a pioneer in the production of faience artefacts in Caux and Normandy. The most notable feature is the tin-glazed, highly durable finish that withstands centuries of use. The jug is accompanied by an equally durable and oh-so-elegant matching stand that is worthy of being on the floor.
Size
The normandyjug is a classic French jug made from brass with a high finish. The jug is slightly textured on the outside to create a stocky shape with a scalloped neck that attaches near the mouth. The jug is engraved with foliage and is decorated with polished brass rings around the body. The jug is 15.5 cm (6.2 inches) tall with a looped handle that extends to the widest point of the jug and ends with a small conical foot. The jug was hand-crafted in Normandy, France circa 1850. This antique cider pitcher jug is in excellent condition. It is perfect for any wet bar.
Condition
Antique French traditional cider jug made from loval oak staves bound with copper banding from the Normandy region. It’s an impressive piece of craftsmanship and is a rare occurrence to find one in such excellent condition. It doesn’t hold a lot of liquid as the wood is beginning to split with age but it is still a good looking piece of kit. The best part is that it’s an affordable way to bring the Normandy tradition to your kitchen.