When a unique face jug appeared on a popular antiques appraisal show, it left both the audience and experts in awe. The piece, featuring bulging faces sculpted into its sides, was initially valued at a staggering $50,000. Though, the truth behind its origins turned out to be far more surprising.
The jug was brought to the show by Alvin Barr, who had purchased it for a mere $300. The piece caught the attention of appraiser Stephen Fletcher, who was captivated by its intricate design. “There are grotesque face jugs out there,” Fletcher remarked. “When we turn this around, there’s a whole variety of characters. This particular person looks like he had an eye injury. They’ve stitched his eye closed.”
Fletcher praised the craftsmanship, noting the use of red clay and the potter’s skillful techniques. “They all have very distinctive characters or personalities,” he added. “This, in its own way, is realy over the top. It’s bizarre and splendid. You even see a little bit of Pablo Picasso going on here.”
Based on its design and materials, Fletcher estimated the jug to be from the late 19th or early 20th century, originating from the middle Atlantic United States. He suggested it could fetch between $30,000 and $50,000 in a retail setting. Alvin, stunned by the appraisal, admitted he thought he had “overpaid” for the item initially.
Though, shortly after the episode aired, the true story of the jug came to light. The artist, Betsy Soule, had created it as a high school art project in the early 1970s. A friend of Soule’s recognized the piece on the show and shared the news wiht her. The revelation significantly reduced its value, with Fletcher now estimating it to be worth $3,000 to $5,000 at auction.
Fletcher openly admitted his mistake,saying,“As far as its age is concerned,I was fooled,as where some of my colleagues. The techniques of making pottery, in many ways, haven’t changed for centuries. Obviously, I was mistaken as to its age by 60 to 80 years.” Despite the mix-up, he acknowledged the jug’s artistic merit, adding, “Still not bad for a high schooler in Oregon.”
The incident serves as a reminder of how even the most seasoned experts can be taken in by remarkable craftsmanship. For Betsy Soule, it was undoubtedly a moment of pride to see her high school project recognized on a national stage, even if its value wasn’t quite as high as initially thought.
What factors contribute to the unique value of an antique face jug?
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From High School Art Project to Antiques Roadshow: The Story Behind the Face Jug
Interview wiht Dr. Emily Carter, Art Historian and Antiques Expert
Question: Dr.Carter, the story of the face jug that appeared on a popular antiques appraisal show has captured a lot of attention. Can you tell us what made this piece so unique?
Dr. Carter: Absolutely. This face jug is a fascinating piece because of its intricate design and the skill involved in its creation. It features bulging faces sculpted into its sides, each with distinct personalities.The craftsmanship, especially the use of red clay and techniques, “This, in its own way, it’s bizarre and splendid.” Despite the confusion, he admitted the piece,” He noticed the use of material and its the appraiser the truth was revealed as the piece on the show. Despite being overpaid, it was found to be far more 300. However, it was actually a³ school $50,000.It’s not bad for a school project. This ], The incident revealed that the artist had created Keywords: antique, value, mistake. This incident stumbled to be piece was common. How do the audience appreciate? The final range for ( a ) is:
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