Deceptive Pitcher Surprise Pot Earthenware Nevers Train Boats Gabares 19th Century

Deceptive pitcher* called a surprise pot in polychrome Nevers earthenware decorated with numerous figures on a train of boats on the Loire, composed of several barges with square sails and other boats (a dog on the last), openwork upper part, with 6 small necks at the neck, marked 1803 Year 11, from the early 19th century. This pitcher is in good general condition. Expert merchant label "Nicolier Quai Voltaire Paris" on the base. Note: some small chips on the foot, slight chips on the necks, enamel defects, wear and tear, see photos. ________________________________________ * The deceptive pitcher, also called a surprise pot, is openwork making it appear impossible to empty it. You can only drink by sucking through one of the small horizontal necks located on the hollow bead that forms the edge of the upper opening. This communicates through the handle, also hollow with the body of the container. The deceptive pots generally have a globular belly mounted on a more or less marked pedestal, a cylindrical or slightly truncated neck and a curved handle. Use: The object is used to surprise and entertain because the "victim" will be disconcerted when the contents of the pitcher spill next to his glass. Then the distraction continues with the discovery of the "trick" which will allow the contents to be drunk without spilling it. The "victim" will easily find the hole at the bottom of the belly, which corresponds to the lower attachment of the hollow handle. And will naturally think of emptying the pitcher by sucking through one of the necks. After several attempts, the discouraged victim will be revealed the last secret of the pitcher. It will be enough to block the small hole discreetly placed under the upper part of the handle that the user himself hid while holding the pot. (See Notice from the Museum of the Hospice Comtesse de Lille) Dimensions Diameter at the neck 8.8 cm Diameter at the base 10.2 cm Height 20.5 cm Reference: 500 906 All the photos are on: www.antiques-delaval.com