Earthenware utility scheme jug
- Object Number: STKMG:1988.P.95.1
- Simple Name: jug
- Production Place: Longton
- Production Place: Staffordshire
- Production Place: England
- Production Organisation: Thomas Forester and Sons Ltd (factory)
- Summary: Earthenware utility scheme jug. Undecorated except for moulded bands around rim, body and handle. Marked 'Utility Scheme Class A'.
- Terms:ceramics
- Terms:utility ware
- Terms:war and conflict
- Terms:101 Ceramic Highlights
- Terms:Second World War
- Inscription:
- Inscription:
- Additional Notes: In 1942 the industry was subject to ?concentration? under the ?Utility Scheme?. Many factories were closed in order release people for war work. Other firms were allowed to continue but were subject to conditions about the types of ware they could produce for the home market. At the beginning of the war undecorated wares were feely available and decorated ware was allowed on a quota system. However the situation soon changed and tighter regulation was needed to stop a shortage of useful wares. Both china and earthenware with decoration were banned. This even included backstamps if they did not conform to regulatory standards. These measure saved money, time and fuel that could be used elsewhere. Only decorated wares for export were permitted, to be sold abroad to earn money for the war effort. The only decorated wares available for the home market were export rejects. This strict control of the industry by the Board of Trade led to many rumours and scares. This included a false rumour that the Board had issued ordered for all cups to be made handles to speed up production!
- Contact: Potteries Museum and Art Gallery
