Masons "Old School House" pattern combines bravura brushwork and extravagant gilt enhancements with their rich cobalt ground for extra punch on this mid-size "Fenton" shape jug.

Brilliantly painted orange Imari panels decorate each side of the jug. On one side, a lobed circular panel almost covers the space with a hand painted scene of simple buildings (presumably the "Old School House"). On the reverse, a very angular fan shape panel frames an exotic gilt-ground floral study. The pattern is knitted together with a flamboyant network of gilt vines studded with oversize orange enamel blossoms which enhance the jewel-like quality of the pattern.

The final feature is the creature handle. The little denizen, executed in complementary brick red and green enamels crawls up the side of the jug and peers over the rim. His little face and feet are picked out in ochre lustre adding one more brilliant contrast to a pattern filled with brilliant contrasts.

What a remarkable combination! Masons "Old School House" pattern and their "Fenton" jug shape--two extremely strong, flamboyant, almost raucous designs-- combine for an end result which almost vibrates with energy. While Masons "Old School House" pattern is relatively early in their long production, we feel it is here that Masons achieves that bravura which collectors pursue.