John Barleycorn character jug modeled by Charles J. Noke and produced by Royal Doulton of Burslem, England, between 1939-1960. As the personification of malt liquor, the amiable John Barleycorn was popularized by Robert Burns in his renowned poem, "Tam O'Shanter": "Inspiring bold John Barleycorn, What dangers thou canst make us scorn!" Burns represents poor John as being crushed between two millstones and this undoubtedly accounts for the flat-faced shape of the jug! With his merry grin the result of imbibing a bit too much, this gentleman is a familiar figure in old English ballads, including "A Pleasant New Ballad of the Bloody Murther of Sir John Barleycorn", where he is even portrayed as a knight. Note the handle joined at the outside of Barleycorn's head. Along with this large size, a small size (D5735), miniature size (D6041), and tiny size (D6952) were also produced.
Maker:
Royal Doulton
England
1939-1960
Model #:
D5327
character jug
Size:
large
Height:
6 1/2"
