American Toby Jug Museum 

King Lear prototype toby jug modeled by Ernest T. Bailey and produced by Burgess, Dorling & Leigh of Burslem, England, circa 2000 using its Burleigh Ware tradename. The "Tragedy of King Lear", often shortened to King Lear, is a tragedy written by William Shakespeare. It is loosely based on the mythological Leir of Britain. King Lear, in preparation for his old age, divides his power and land between his daughters Goneril and Regan, who pay homage to gain favor, feigning love. The King's third daughter, Cordelia, is offered a third of his kingdom also, but refuses to be insincere in her praise and affection. She instead offers the respect of a daughter and is disowned by Lear who seeks flattery. Regan and Goneril subsequently break promises to host Lear and his entourage, so he opts to become homeless and destitute, and goes insane. The French King married to Cordelia then invades Britain to restore order and Lear's rule. Tragically, Lear, Cordelia and several other main characters die. The Dorlings purchased Burgess & Leigh in 1999 and began producing ware from the molds.