American Toby Jug Museum 

Mandolin Player toby jug produced by Sitzendorfer Porzellanmanufaktur of Thuringa, Germany, circa 1920. The mandolin is a modern member of the lute family, dating back to Italy in the 18th century. The instrument was played across Europe but then disappeared after the Napoleonic Wars. Credit for creating the modern bowlback version of the instrument goes to the Vinaccia family of Naples. The deep bowled mandolin, especially the Neapolitan form, became common in the 19th century, following the appearance of a popular international group, the Spanish Students. They toured Europe and America, and their performances created a stir that helped the mandolin to become widely popular. This Mandolin Player travels the countryside entertaining avid crowds in pubs, inns and town squares for tips.