A ‘Sir Sidney Smith’ biscuit ware jug showing the defence of Acre, 1799

This jug is moulded in high relief on both sides with a battle scene depicting Sir Sidney Smith, with turbaned Ottomans, defending the breach at Acre against Napoleon’s French invaders intent on reaching Jerusalem in 1799, the handle with a central cresting and acanthus leaves. Attributed to Meigh and Son, English, circa 1845.

Admiral Sir William Sidney Smith (1764-1840) was a British naval officer. Serving in the American and French revolutionary wars, he later rose to the rank of admiral. Napoleon Bonaparte, reminiscing later in his life, said of him: “That man made me miss my destiny.” This image of the action was taken from an engraving by artist and illustrator, William Hamilton RA (1751–1801) ‘Defence of the Breach at St Jean D’Acre by Sir William Sidney Smith’ which was reproduced and published by Anthony Fogg, 7 April 1802. A copy of the print now at the National Portrait Gallery, London, accompanies this piece. The National Maritime Museum, (object ID AAA4417), has a very similar jug made by Meigh circa 1799, which was originally painted gold.

Job Meigh worked out of Old Hall Pottery, Hanley, Staffordshire from 1805, producing high quality stoneware and earthenware. His son Charles continued this business from 1834. His most well-known and popular works were stoneware jugs with relief decoration formed as part of the mould before pieces were cast. The Meigh company exhibited at the Great Exhibition of 1851 and in 1886 won a medal.