This medium size Masons Ironstone jug is decorated in the somewhat curious "Table and Flower Pot" pattern.  The tableau -- which is repeated on each side -- features a prominent vase of flowers and off to the side a craggy table with a bowl of fruit. The mystery comes in with a floating bamboo rod behind the  floral study and a nesting duck at the foot of the entire scene. (Ever wonder why the prominent duck gets no billing in the pattern name?)

The Masons decorators had a field day coloring this transfer-printed pattern.  Hues include pink, brilliant orange, bright yellow, slate blue, and brown, along with multiple green tones for the foliage which abounds in this pattern. 

The border, repeated around the interior of the neck, is also printed and colored with with unusual care. Contrasting fields of Chinese fret patterns are offset by sprays of lotus and a stylized chrysanthemum. Dashes of slate blue add contrast, and traces of ochre lustre remain on the edge of the rim.

This particular jug shape is especially well suited to displaying the Masons "Table and Flower Pot" pattern. By limiting the border pattern to the collar and handle, the balance of the jug is left open, allowing plenty of space for a large-scale version of the main tableau. This, along with the bulbous shape, gives the jug a visual impact greater than its actual dimensions would suggest.