Large Charles Meigh Relief-moulded Pitcher “bacchanalian Dance”, 1844

A large, sculptural white stoneware pitcher by Charles Meigh, decorated with a deep relief Bacchanalian frieze featuring satyrs, maenads, putti and grape-gathering scenes. The modelling is crisp and expressive, catching light beautifully across the glossy surface. The pewter helmet-type lid, made by James Dixon & Son of Sheffield, complements the strong silhouette and reinforces the jug’s mid-19th-century authenticity.

The base bears the 30 September 1844 registered design mark, confirming early production. Large-format Meigh pitchers of this scale have a commanding presence and work effectively as standalone sculptural objects within contemporary and classic interiors.

Charles Meigh was a leading Staffordshire maker of relief-moulded ware in the 1840s. His Bacchanalian models drew on compositions by Poussin and Rubens, reflecting renewed interest in academic and neoclassical themes. Large jugs exceeding 30 cm are considered the pinnacle of Meigh’s production and were often paired with pewter lids by established firms such as James Dixon & Son.

• Height: 31 cm / 12.20″

• Width: 21 cm / 8.26″

• Diameter: 18.1 cm / 7.12″

• Weight: 2408 g

Excellent condition for an example of this scale.
The relief is crisp throughout, with intact handle and vine elements; no structural concerns noted.
A particularly strong and well-preserved example of Meigh’s finest relief work.

Fully tracked and insured delivery.
Shipping cost includes labour, packaging and postage.
Carefully packed using recycled materials where possible.

Please study all photographs as they form part of the description.
Questions are welcome.