Silver-mounted ‘tigerware’ beer jug – estimate £4000-6000 at Cheffins on December 8-9.
The fashion for adorning these Rhenish saltglazed vessels with silver mounts appears to have started at the court of Henry VIII. Cardinal Wolsey and his administrator, Thomas Cromwell, apparently both possessed such jugs in the 1520s.
Following their lead, many wealthy Elizabethan drinkers had their jugs and mugs mounted with silver decorated in the latest style with engraved fruit, figures and animals.
This 10in (26cm) example (apparently unmarked) probably dates from the late 16th century and carries the ownership initials RC.
It comes for sale from Landwade Hall, Suffolk with a guide of £4000-6000 at Cheffins of Cambridge on December 8-9.
