13.75" x 8.25" Dia. (base).

A two-gallon stoneware merchant jug with strong cobalt blue decoration of a running bird and the number 2 in script, made for R. Holden & Co. in Belleville, Ontario. In 1835 Rufus Holden established a drug store at 297 Front Street in Belleville. After earning his medical degree in 1842, Rufus brought in his brother-in-law, Merrick Sawyer, as a partner; in 1853, Rufus’s brother, James C. Holden, took over management of the business from Mr. Sawyer. Albert Loft Geen, a 17-year-old apothecary apprentice, became a partner in 1855. Dr. Holden also served on the Belleville town council for 5 years and was the mayor in 1864-65. In 1868 the business name was changed to J. C. Holden & Co. and would eventually be taken over by Albert Geen. Dr. Rufus Holden passed away in March 1876 however the business he established carried on well into the 1900s under the ownership of Geen and his descendants. Attributed to Skinner Pottery, Picton, 1850s. Stamped, "R. Holden & Co. / Dealer In / Drugs, Chemicals, / Paints, Oils. / Belleville." Capacity mark "2' in cobalt script.

Overall good condition. Moderate to heavy staining, lower half at the front extending toward the left side, as well as the spout and handle. Thin 1/4" flake front of spout. 1" chip left side base edge. Faint X-shaped hairline crack to the left of the lower handle terminal.