Description
An outstanding antique practical joke puzzle jug
A special construction with tubes and holes, using the Pythagorean Cup principles, makes it so that the user would get the liquid contents of the jug spilled all over them, unless they cover one of the air holes with their thumb (located just under the handle) to create a vacuum
Made as a practical joke device, used in jest in taverns and pubs, very popular during 18th and 19th century
All hand painted, with copper luster and green/blue slip decorations
Inscribed in Italian up front - AMICO BEVI ("Friend's Drink") or possibly Drink, my Friend!
Made of glazed faience earthenware
All original and complete
Antique, 18th/19th century, Italian in origin
Measurements: Approx. 7.5" handle to spout, 6" diameter (across), 5.5" tall
Weighs about 1 lb. 3 oz.
Condition: Good overall. Please see photos below. All original. A tight hairline on the side, as pictured. Still strong and study in it's construction, displays very well. Glaze crazing from the age
Condition:
Alterations: Original Condition Unaltered
Imperfections: Some Imperfections
Condition Notes: Good overall. Please see photos below. All original. A tight hairline on the side, as pictured. Still strong and study in it's construction, displays very well. Glaze crazing from the age
Origin:
Italy
Materials & Techniques:
Earthenware, Faience
Details:
Country of Origin: Italy
What type of item is it? Vintage / Antique / Used
A special construction with tubes and holes, using the Pythagorean Cup principles, makes it so that the user would get the liquid contents of the jug spilled all over them, unless they cover one of the air holes with their thumb (located just under the handle) to create a vacuum
Made as a practical joke device, used in jest in taverns and pubs, very popular during 18th and 19th century
All hand painted, with copper luster and green/blue slip decorations
Inscribed in Italian up front - AMICO BEVI ("Friend's Drink") or possibly Drink, my Friend!
Made of glazed faience earthenware
All original and complete
Antique, 18th/19th century, Italian in origin
Measurements: Approx. 7.5" handle to spout, 6" diameter (across), 5.5" tall
Weighs about 1 lb. 3 oz.
Condition: Good overall. Please see photos below. All original. A tight hairline on the side, as pictured. Still strong and study in it's construction, displays very well. Glaze crazing from the age
Condition:
Alterations: Original Condition Unaltered
Imperfections: Some Imperfections
Condition Notes: Good overall. Please see photos below. All original. A tight hairline on the side, as pictured. Still strong and study in it's construction, displays very well. Glaze crazing from the age
Origin:
Italy
Materials & Techniques:
Earthenware, Faience
Details:
Country of Origin: Italy
What type of item is it? Vintage / Antique / Used
Condition
Original Condition Unaltered; Some Imperfections; Good overall. Please see photos below. All original. A tight hairline on the side, as pictured. Still strong and study in it's construction, displays very well. Glaze crazing from the age
Buyer's Premium
20%
Dimensions
5.5 x 7.5 x 6 in
18th/19th Century Italian Faience Puzzle Jug
Estimate $110-$430
Starting Price
$55
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The Late Summer Salon
Aug 20, 2026, 7:00 PM EDTNew York, NY, United States
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