Historical Staffordshire pearlware jug or pitcher, made for the American market by R. Hall and Son, commemorating the 1824 visit to America of Gen. Lafayette. Dark blue transferware decoration features images of the Marquis de Lafayette, "THE NATION'S GUEST," and George Washington, "HIS COUNTRY'S FATHER", along with eagle and shield emblem under spout with the words "REPUBLICANS ARE NOT ALWAYS UNGRATEFUL". 6-5/8"H. Note: French General Lafayette's support was instrumental in achieving U.S. liberty from England and earned him the status of adopted American son and hero. His 1824 tour of each American state inspired numerous souvenirs. Few survive in historical blue transferware (examples of this pitcher in black transferware are later). This pitcher differs from other known examples in that the image of Lafayette appears smudged and the border does not contain the vignette "First in War, First in Peace… " over Washington's image. However, it does appear to be of the period. Provenance: private Nashville collection, purchased on the East Coast in the early 20th century. Condition: Old hairline to bottom extending up into the words "His Country's Father"; minute old chip and old 1" hairline at top rim above Lafayette's image. Small Firing crack to interior of spout (does not go through to exterior). Old fleabite to foot ring, light wear to top of handle.