Betschdorf Stoneware Jug With Cobalt-blue Bird Design – Alsace, 19th Century

A beautiful and decorative large French stoneware jug from Betschdorf in Alsace, dating from the second half of the 19th century.

The jug is made of gray salt-glazed stoneware, characteristic of Betschdorf’s production, and features a rich cobalt blue decoration. It is particularly notable for its large, hand-engraved bird, highlighted with cobalt blue, depicted with a long beak, a crest, and a long tail. Other small, stylized motifs in cobalt blue are scattered around the body.

The decoration was engraved into the stoneware before firing and then partially filled with cobalt blue. The cylindrical neck is adorned with several twisted lines outlined in blue. A fine incised circular line is also visible on the shoulder.

Beneath the handle is the number 3, incised before firing. This type of incised number is also found on other documented antique jugs from Betschdorf.

A beautiful, characterful example of traditional Alsatian salt-glazed stoneware. The large figurative design depicting a bird makes this jug particularly decorative and unusual.

Condition:
Original and authentic condition, with signs of wear consistent with its age. Several old cracks are present: on the handle, at its upper attachment point, on the neck, on the side of the jug, and on the base. To the best of our knowledge, no recent restoration is visible. Other normal signs of firing and use typical of 19th-century artisanal stoneware. The cracks and overall condition are clearly shown in the detailed photographs.

Dimensions:
Height: 33 cm

Origin:
Betschdorf, Alsace, France

Period:
Second half of the 19th century, circa 1850–1880

Search terms:
Betschdorf, Alsace, salt-glazed stoneware, Alsatian jug, French stoneware, cobalt blue, bird, jug, Alsatian pottery, engraved decoration, 19th century

Thank you for your visit. Best regards, Ben