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Glazed tankard decorated with two American clippers
Glazed tankard decorated with two American clippers

Glazed tankard decorated with two American clippers

Maker
Date1961 - 1969
Object number00027373
NameTankard
MediumCeramic
DimensionsOverall: 135 x 120 x 95 x 95 mm, 0.4 kg
ClassificationsTools and equipment
Credit LineANMM Collection Gift from Vaughan Evans
DescriptionThis glazed tankard is decorated with two black transfer prints depicting American clipper ships. These transfers were taken from 19th century engravings of the THREE BROTHERS and SOVEREIGN OF THE SEAS. The tankards handle is shaped in the form of a mermaid and glazed with a number of colours.HistoryThe depiction of maritime scenes and famous vessels continue to be popular themes on souvenir ceramic items. Sandland Staffordshire potters produced tankards like this in multiples. SOVERIEGN OF THE SEAS was built in 1852 at East Boston by the famous ship builder Donald McKay. It was an extreme clipper ship capable of carrying 2582 tons and commanded by McKay's brother, Captain Lauchlan McKay. SOVERIEGN OF THE SEAS was involved in trade between Liverpool and Melbourne. It carried items ranging from brandy, bacon, hosiery and horse blankets. Known to be on of the fastest ships of its time it made record breaking trips to Australia in the speedy time of 68 days. In 1854 the ship was sold to German interests and commanded by Captain Mueller. It was wrecked in the Malacca straits and abandoned in 1859.SignificanceThis tankard is representative of cheaply made 20th century ceramic ware celebrating the era of the clipper ships. It highlights the well known American ship SOVEREIGN OF THE SEAS.