jug

Keith Murray 1892 - 1981

Summary

Barrel shaped jug with prominent pulled lip and moulded border of three incised bands around foot. Plain loop handle with spur at top of loop giving angled profile. Applied relief decoration on sides comprising right side profile, head and shoulders portrait of George VI surmounted by a crown to right of handle, left side profile portrait of Queen Elizabeth surmounted by a crown to left of handle. The whole decorated with a creamy white matt 'Moonstone' glaze.

Display Label

Gallery text panel The Industrial Art Collection In the early 1930s Manchester Art Gallery decided to form a collection of modern design. The Industrial Art Collection was intended to show how artistic qualities could be found in the most humble of everyday objects, from kitchen tableware to bedroom curtains. The collection enabled the Gallery to take part in a growing debate on standards in British design. It was an opportunity to encourage manufacturers to improve the quality of their products, and to show Gallery visitors that good design could and should be available to everyone. With this in mind, curator Lawrence Haward visited trade fairs and department stores, acquiring textiles, ceramics, glass and furniture. His choices are typical of 1930s 'good taste' and many have since become design classics.