The Martin Brothers, a quartet of Victorian potters, revolutionized the world of ceramics with their unique and often whimsical creations. They are famous for their Grotesque Birds but among their most distinctive works are their Toby Jugs (some of which are also Grotesque), which stand out not only for their craftsmanship but also for the imaginative flair they brought to this traditional form. The Martin Brothers’ Toby Jugs are a testament to the innovative spirit of the brothers, particularly Robert Wallace Martin, who played a significant role in their creation.
The Artistic Legacy of the Martin Brothers
The Martin Brothers—Robert Wallace, Charles, Edwin, and Walter—operated a pottery studio in London from the late 19th century into the early 20th century. Their work, characterized by a blend of Gothic, medieval, and naturalistic influences, often carried a satirical or grotesque edge that was both ahead of its time and distinct from the mainstream pottery of the era.
Their Toby Jugs, unlike the more conventional depictions of jovial, rotund figures often associated with the form, explored more eccentric and imaginative themes. These jugs were not merely functional objects but also sculptural works of art, imbued with personality and often tinged with humor or irony.
Notable Examples and Auction Highlights
One of the most remarkable examples of a Martin Brothers Toby Jug is a late 19th-century stoneware Toby jar and cover modeled as a seated dog, attributed to Robert Wallace Martin. This piece, standing at 13 cm tall, is meticulously detailed, with incised fur and a rich glaze of dark brown with black spots and white detailing. The whimsical nature of this jug, with the dog wearing a ruff collar, exemplifies the Martin Brothers’ ability to transform everyday objects into fantastical creations. This piece fetched an impressive £8,000 at a Fieldings Auctioneers sale on March 7, 2020. In 2005 a similar example sold for £18,000.
Another significant piece by Robert Wallace Martin is a rare Toby Jug dated 1903, which was auctioned by Bonhams on December 1, 2021, also for £8,000. This jug, modeled as a figure seated in a high-backed chair with a glass in one hand and a pipe in the other, demonstrates the Martin Brothers’ exceptional skill in capturing character and mood. The figure’s carefully modeled face, with eyes glancing to the left, and the detailed buttoned tunic, are testaments to Robert Wallace Martin’s mastery of form and expression. This particular jug has a notable provenance, having been part of the James and Timmey Challenger Collection in Chicago. It also shares a connection with a similar piece housed in The British Museum, which was likely one of only three such jugs made by Robert Wallace Martin in 1903.
Another exceptional example is a fine Martin Brothers stoneware model of ‘Toby,’ dated 1894. This piece, featuring a detachable head with squint-eyes, an expressive mouth showing teeth and tongue, and a ruff around the neck, is a tour de force of the Martin Brothers’ whimsical artistry. The figure is depicted recumbent on its hind legs, glazed in brown, and mounted on a circular stoneware base glazed in black, with an ebonized plinth. The incised mark around the neck-rim reads “Martin Bros., London + Southall, 8-1894.” Standing at 11.5 inches tall, this piece is not only larger but also more intricately detailed than many other Toby Jugs by the Martin Brothers. It achieved a remarkable hammer price of £18,000 at Gorringes on October 18, 2005, underscoring its rarity and desirability among collectors.
The Enduring Appeal of Martin Brothers Toby Jugs
The Martin Brothers’ Toby Jugs continue to captivate collectors and art enthusiasts alike, not only for their historical significance but also for their unique blend of humor, artistry, and craftsmanship. Each jug tells a story, inviting viewers to appreciate the quirky and imaginative world that the Martin Brothers brought to life through their work. The high prices these jugs command at auction reflect their enduring appeal and the esteem in which they are held within the world of decorative arts.
