Circa 1959: The ever popular Harlequin service water pitcher, also known as the ball jug, was, after 21 years in production, discontinued in 1959 just about the time Homer Laughlin introduced the medium green glaze, and, subsequently, under a dozen Harlequin ball jugs are known to have survived, making this piece one of the rarest Harlequin items ever marketed.
Other Ohio valley potters, like Hall, produced very similar ball jugs, but it is the Homer Laughlin version that will have the bottom and base decorated around with concentric rings.
Measuring 7.25" tall and 8.5" wide and having a 64 ounce capacity, the service water pitcher, with its signature hand jiggered rings, is one of the largest pieces in the Harlequin line and is stunningly beautiful in the rich medium green glaze.
This example is in collector quality condition with no chips, cracks, or repairs and a beautifully applied coat of the highly desirable medium green glaze. We are sure you will take delight in this breathtakingly rare Harlequin ball jug, and it comes, as always, satisfaction guaranteed.
Bob Zordani and Heidi Kellner: (217) 714-5016, Champaign/Urbana, Illinois: zandk@zandkantiques.com
