Charles Meigh Apostle Jug Value Guide

The Charles Meigh Apostle Jug is a quintessential example of Victorian Gothic Revival stoneware, produced in Hanley, England, between 1840 and 1850. These jugs are highly collectible for their intricate relief work that mirrors the architectural grandeur of medieval cathedrals, specifically featuring figures of the biblical apostles.

What Is Charles Meigh Apostle Jug Worth?

The typical price range for Charles Meigh Apostle Jug is $200 - $240 based on recent sales. However, values can vary depending on the item's condition, rarity, and other factors such as:

• Condition of the relief work: Chips or smoothing on the delicate facial features of the apostles significantly reduce market value.
• Color vibrancy: Examples with a crisp, well-defined blue background contrast against the stoneware figures command higher prices.
• Presence of original pewter lids: While many were sold without, the presence of a contemporary 19th-century lid can increase value toward the $240 range.
• Clarity of the manufacturer's stamp: A clear, legible Hanley pottery mark ensures authenticity and provenance for serious collectors.

How to Identify Charles Meigh Apostle Jug?

• Look for the distinct 'Charles Meigh' or 'Meigh & Son' impressed mark on the base, often accompanied by a registration diamond.
• Examine the relief for high-definition Gothic arches housing eight individual figures of apostles around the body.
• Verify the material as heavy, salt-glazed stoneware, typically featuring a matte or semi-gloss finish with a characteristic blue background tint.
• Check for the specific handle design, which often incorporates a molded vine or branch-like texture consistent with 1840s production.

History of Charles Meigh Apostle Jug

Charles Meigh & Son, based in Hanley, England, was a prominent pottery manufacturer during the 19th century, renowned for their innovative molded stoneware. This particular style of 'Apostle Jug' was a popular design, often depicting biblical figures and architectural elements inspired by Gothic cathedrals. These pieces were part of a broader trend in Victorian England to bring elaborate, art-inspired items into the homes of the burgeoning middle class.