I bought myself a nice, big, half-price jug the other day at the very tail end of the sales. I plonked some daffodils in it, and they looked a treat. Vases are great (despite the problem of where to store them when not in use) but jugs have got that extra versatility factor. They look amazing filled with flowers, branches, and all sorts of arrangements, but then can also double up for practical kitchen duties too. Large jugs are perfect for mixing up pitchers of drinks for thirsty crowds, smaller ones for putting the milk or gravy in when we’re trying to impress visitors rather than putting the carton/pan on the table.
Also, dare I mention it, today is Valentine’s Day, so if you’re the lucky recipient of flowers, here are some ideas for something to put them in. (Me, I’m not holding my breath and will be buying myself a couple of bunches of tulips when I go out to buy the paper later).
Jugs used as vases also have a more informal look to them. So if, like me, your arrangements tend to be on the, how shall we say, less than perfect side, then a jug is the ideal vessel. And let’s not forget how characterful jugs are. Their spouts and handles offer innumerable combinations of shape, curve, angle and proportion, and that’s before we’ve even got started on what they’re made from, and how they may be embellished.
Anyway, here’s my round-up of colourful, beautiful jugs to display your Spring flowers to (im)perfection.
Point Duchesse Pitcher, Anthropologie. As you can see from the very top picture, even lop-sided flowers (and vegetables) look amazing in this jug. Although you may also have to repaint your walls for the full effect.
Jars Jug in Orange, Divertimenti. One of my favourite jugs, ever. It’s so plump and friendly, and such a cheery orange. It just makes me smile – every time.
Fat Ceramics Jug by Piet Hein Eek, Amara. Designed to break away from the traditions of thin, delicate pottery, this contemporary collection of ceramics features thick profiles and contemporary angles and was made in collaboration with Sang Arun, a traditional ceramic maker in Thailand. Also available in pale blue.
Baluster Jugs by Taz Pollard Ceramics, NOTHS. I spotted these amazing, colourful jugs at the New Designers 2013 show, and it’s been a delight to see Taz Pollard go from strength to strength since with her original and innovative work. Available in 3 sizes and either bright blue, lime green or pillar box red you can also specify your own handle colour if you want. Unlike the other vases featured, these are purely decorative and haven’t been tested for food safety.
Santiago Earthenware Jug, Habitat. A quirky, distinctive design in a lovely soft blue glaze.
Silt Large Jug by VW+BS, Clippings. International design and architecture company VW+BS has created a collection of tableware pieces, called Silt, using the traditional material of unglazed Purple Clay, more commonly used for the tiny and elaborate teapots in China in which they serve black tea.
Verdi Green Glaze Water Jug, OKA. A wonderful, rather 1930’s shade of green, and the vintage look continues with the scalloped edge and spout.
Two-Tone Zinc Pitcher, French Connection. A beautifully thin and elegant handle and soft grey, patinated finish. This metal jug comes in two sizes.
Bates Serving Jug from Makers & Merchants, NOTHS. Handmade in white glazed terracotta by third generation Portuguese potters, this squat jug is perfect for small posies and short-stemmed flowers. And for custard. There’s a taller water jug in the same style available too.
Sardines Run Jug by Jersey Pottery, Heal’s. Inspired by antique Vietnamese pottery, Sardine Run is named after the annual mass spawning of sardines in Southern Africa.
Images: makers and brands as credited above
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