19th Century French Hand Painted Ceramic Barbotine Pig Pitcher Signed Onnaing

Description

This antique water pitcher was crafted in Northern France, circa 1880. The jug, titled "Cochon au Jambon" (pig with ham), … more This antique water pitcher was crafted in Northern France, circa 1880. The jug, titled "Cochon au Jambon" (pig with ham), features a pig sculpture with a laurel leaf crown carrying a ham, and embellished with a sausage link handle. The figure has wonderful facial expressions and a unique shape. The playful pitcher is in excellent condition and has rich colors throughout in a tan skin tone. Markings on the bottom with #755, Onnaing made in France. The farm animal subject matter is a Classic motif of French country style. A similar piece is pictured in the book "Pichets en Barbotines" by Maryse Bottero page 84. (See last two pictures).
The Onnaing Faiencerie was founded in Onnaing, France, in 1821 by Charles de Bousies. During the second half of the 19th century, the Mouzin brothers bought the factory and ran it until the factory closed in 1938. It was nearly destroyed by the Germans during World War I, but production restarted in 1921. The factory made mostly Majolica pitchers and planters. Onnaing designs included flowers, geometric patterns and famous historical figures, among others. Each design had a number and a corresponding model name. The marks “Frie Onnaing” and “Made in France” indicate that it was made after World War I. Best known among Onnaing Majolica are his pitchers with pigs or roosters.
Measures: 8.25" W x 5" D x 8.5" H. less