This toby jug is called a Sailor, and was made by the master toby jug maker, Ralph Wood, about 1780. There are various version, one of the most common is the version called the American Sailor, in which he would have a sea chest with the word Dollars printed on it. This particular jug was bought from a dealer in Portabello Road Market, and he bought it at a house sale in Oporto, Portugal. In the 19th century there was a large English ex pat community there, and still is today, all to do with the trade on port wine. This example has been damaged and repaired, mostly around the hat. The best parts are the definition of the face, and the almost translucent colouring or the waistcoat. Other Ralph Wood Jugs types are :- Classic Raised hand or Mold 52 Squire Martha Gunn |  |
