Bellarmine Jug
With Rare
Heart-in-Jug Medallion 

German, ca. 17th century.
Archaeological excavations at colonial sites in New England, Jamestown, and the Chesapeake region show these jugs had extensive use in Colonial America.
Bellarmine stoneware jugs got their nickname because they were mostly used to store and drink alcohol, while the Catholic Cardinal Bellarmine opposed alcohol. The malevolent-looking "bearded face" was a way to mock Cardinal Bellarmine. Some Bellarmine jugs were also used as "witches bottles". The jug was filled with various objects such as human urine, hair and magical charms, which were believed to ward off witches.

Highly-ovoid form with narrow base, long neck, applied handle, decorated with the raised bearded man at the neck and a rare heart-within-a-jug at the midsection. The surface was dipped in brown slip and covered in a light salt glaze. Expected minor chipping around base and spout.

About 9 inches tall. From a private Midwest collection, acquired years ago from Hollis Broderick, NH.