Bells Whiskyjug 3 Waterjug

Whisky collectors chase bottles. Sooner or later some of them work out that the things which stood around the bottles are at least as hard to find today. Jugs, trays and ashtrays were used up and thrown out, which is why they have grown scarce.

Please note: This is a used vintage jug, so it may show wear from its years in service. Every example is its own.

The expert's description

Bell's Water Jug 3 is a vintage water jug in Bell's livery, made for use behind the bar.

Bar ware from the spirits houses has a collecting field of its own, filed under breweriana in English. The pieces were produced in large numbers but used hard and rarely put away, which is exactly why they are difficult to find in decent condition today.

This jug carries the mark of a house that has had signage in British pubs since the 1800s. It is a working object with patina rather than a display piece, and it can be put straight back into use on the table at home.

Specifications

Name: Bell's Water Jug 3
Distillery: Bell's
Region/Country: Scotland
Type: Water jug
Edition: Vintage

Did you know?

Most British pub jugs were made in the ceramics factories of Staffordshire, which also produced tableware for the domestic market. The factories printed brands to order, and the same shape could end up carrying ten different logos.

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Frequently asked questions about Bell's water jug 3

Are old whisky jugs worth collecting?

For some people, yes. Bar ware was used and discarded, so supply is limited, and the objects say something about how whisky was actually sold. It is a collecting field where you can still get started without stalling.

How do you tell how old a jug is?

Look for the factory mark on the base and at the shape of the logo. Brand graphics changed across the decades, and the base mark can often be traced to a particular factory and period.

What is breweriana?

The English umbrella term for objects made to market beer and spirits, meaning signs, trays, jugs, glasses and everything else that belonged in a bar. The field is large and covers far more than breweries.

Can you still use it?

Yes. The jug is made for water and does the job perfectly well today. Set it beside your whisky glass and use it as it was meant to be used.

Should it be displayed or packed away?

It handles being on display, and it was made to be seen. Direct sunlight can fade the decoration over time, so a shelf out of the midday sun is a sensible spot.

What does wear mean for the value?

Heavy chips and cracks pull the value down, while ordinary marks of use are normal for a vintage jug. Collectors accept patina, but they look closely at the rim and the handle.