Two Jugs found in Alcochete near Setúbal: 13th or 14th century AD

These beautiful medieval jugs or pitchers were made in the Valencia area, probably in Paterna.

Decorative jugs of specially high quality were important exports in Medieval times, and several centres in each country specialised in their production (like Stamford, Lincolnshire, in England).

These jugs were made of a very fine clay, well thrown on a fast wheel, probably in several parts which were then joined together. The bridge-type spout and handle were carefully fitted on and the surface smoothed before the painted decoration, still reminiscent of Islamic designs, was painted on using mineral paints made of copper oxide and manganese. Then the whole jug was glazed with lead oxide before firing.

Fancy jugs were often associated with the wine trade in Medieval times. The bridge-type spout was an ideal design for pouring wine while filtering out dregs and impurities.