RARE Antique Nichols & Stegg Cairo Illinois Stoneware Whiskey Jug 9"

Description

Up for auction is this rare antique Nichols & Stegg stoneware whiskey jug. It is marked with the company name and "Cairo, ILL." There is very little information online about this jug. I found two other examples that sold over the past 15 years, and one Civil War era illustration from the June 22, 1861 edition of Harper's magazine that depicts the demolition of the "Distillery on the Point" on the Mississippi River in Cairo to make way for Fort Defiance. Based on appearance and condition, I presume this piece is from that time. The jug stands 9" tall and about 5.5" wide.  It is in very good antique condition with no apparent cracks. It has one significant chip at the base and some small chips and rough spots along the top rim between the mouth and the base, but even those look like they happened a long time ago based on the patina. It has a cork that also appears to be the original. Please look closely at the photos to make your own determination of condition. If you would like to see more photos or have any questions, please ask prior to bidding.  Thanks for looking!