Context (Acquisition Details)
The three miniature Cambridge Ale Jugs (2025.5 - 2025.7) and the postcard of a jug (Doc.617) were donated to the Museum by Christopher Jakes to join the Wedgwood versions (2017.51 - 2017.52).
Event Date 13/6/2025
Author: Imogen Gunn (admin)

Context (Analysis)
The original 'Cambridge Ale Jug' was found in 1850 during building works to rebuild and expand 5-6 Trinity Street, Cambridge, the site of Woollard & Hattersley (later Hattersley Brothers), who arranged to have a mould made and sent to Wedgwood. Wedgwood registered the shape and produced the 'Cambridge Ale Jug' in a variety of sizes, which were sold by Woollard & Hattersley in their Cambridge shop, often erroneously describing it as Roman. The original medieval jug ultimately became part of the museum's founding collection (1883.457). Although Wedgwood registered the shape of the jug, and some stage other potteries began making cheaper versions (also called Cambridge Ale Jugs), including this one. Although much smaller in size than both the original and the Wedgwood varieties, it is nevertheless a fair likeness although the details are not as fine as 2025.5 and 2025.6.
Event Date 13/6/2025
Author: Imogen Gunn (admin)

Description (Physical description)
Miniature porcelain 'Cambridge Ale Jug' by an unknown maker. Pointed spout, ribbed neck; strap handle; slightly sagging body with very shallow parallel grooves around the lower section; convex base. White glaze with gold rim, body decorated with a multi-coloured but faded crest of Cambridge. The base is stamped 'MODEL ROMAN JUG FOUND AT CAMBRIDGE ORIGINAL IN MUSEUM'.
Event Date 13/6/2025
Author: Imogen Gunn (admin)