A Stuart Period , Small Salt Glaze -Stoneware Bellarmine Jar.

A very good looking ,stuart period ,small salt glaze - stoneware bellarmine jar with face mask.

This item which dates to the early to mid 17th century AD, is in wonderful allover condition. 

Of a rare smaller size, with good brown glaze and carrying the bearded face mask of Cardinal Robert Bellarmine.(1542 -1621).who was a Catholic and objected to drinking, so mockingly his image appeared on drinking Jugs such as this.

Size . 19.0 CM in Height.

Some old rub marks to the glaze as shown, however free from restoration and repair. 

Thames foreshore excavations,Blackfriars, London.1972.

As with all of my antiquities and coins this item comes complete with a certificate of authenticity.