Peter Street Hunting Jug

Ham Green jugs are usually glazed and often decorated with a variety of designs including both human and animal figuresThis medieval jug represents the story of Bristol's early trade and exchange which not only shaped the city but the rest of the world. This type of pottery was known as Ham Green ware, the name taken from a kiln site excavated in a field next to Ham Green Hospital in the 1950s. Dating from between the middle of the 12th and end of the 13th century, the pottery was successfully exported in large quantities to both South Wales and the east coast of Ireland. The figures on this pot represent an archer with his bow ready to fire on a stag and doe. Although all these figures are made of applied strips of clay the potter has managed to convey a real sense of fear in the eyes of the stag as it tries to escape its fate. The number of pieces found in Ireland alone testifies to the importance of Bristol's trade activities over 800 years ago.

Ham Green jugs are usually glazed and often decorated with a variety of designs including both human and animal figures