LIVERPOOL SOUVENIR PITCHER, 1789

A British pottery manufacturer produced this commemorative pitcher for the American market in 1789. It presents Liberty as a woman in a golden gown, holding a laurel wreath (signifying classical honors) over Washington’s head. Fifteen labeled links encircle the scene, representing the states, although in 1789 Rhode Island and North Carolina had not yet ratified the Constitution, and Vermont and Kentucky were merely anticipated states. Smithsonian Institution, National Museum of American History, Behring Center.