Craft and Design gallery
Given by Joseph Mayer, 1867
Purchased, 1953
Most of the pottery of the Middle Ages was left unglazed. Lead glazes were only used sparingly, as lead was expensive. The glaze helped to make the pot waterproof but also made it more decorative. Here, the larger jug has been decorated with a 'bib' of glaze beneath the lip. The streaks of glaze at each side may also have been applied on purpose.