Large & Impressive Early 18th Century English Antique Leather Bombard / Jug

As we say time and time again, we love English antique leather bombards and blackjacks, and always buy period ones when they come up for sale.  Yes, they are always expensive to buy but worth every penny in our opinion and they are always on our “must-have” list when they appear!

This fine and large bombard dates back to the early 18th Century.

Bombards are a very English tradition and were used as vessels for carrying ale, cider, water, and other fluids. Smaller mugs/drinking vessels exist and are known as “blackjacks”.

Formed on a mould from wet leather, earlier examples were then hand-stitched together.  This example shows hand stitching, indicating an early date.

These vessels were lined with bitumen or had tin liners.

This bombard has lovely wear and patina to the outer surface and displays very well. The external surface is decorated with polychrome-painted figures and a mask and bears a written “ode” to pipes and snuff. The handle is also decorated. To the underside of the base is an old armorial / coat of arms. This had not been identified.

Condition – Please refer to the images. There is surface wear commensurate with age. A further detailed condition report is available upon request.

Size: Height 63.5 cm (25″)