Found lurking in the display shelves of the Swan House fine art gallery...
West Paces Ferry Rd, Buckhead
Actually... Southern potters have made face jugs since the late 1800's. The first face jugs may have been made in Edgefield, SC, by slave potters. These pots were 5 to 9 inches tall, with small white rocks for teeth. Their purpose is unknown, but they might have served as a connection to ancestors or as grave markers.
White potters took up the tradition and made it their own. I have heard that grotesque face jugs were used to scare evil spirits and kept them from entering a house. I have also heard that face jugs most often contained corn whiskey. In this case the faces deterred thieves.
Face jugs became quite fashionable in the 1960's and '70's as exotic/fun items to collect. Many potters throughout the South still sell traditional face jugs, and it is clear that the tradition has gained new momentum!
Many thanks and a tip 'o the hat to Emily for her good eye and quick reflexes!
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