St. Andrews crested ware jug Porcelain

Crested ware emerged in the late 19th century as a popular form of souvenir pottery, particularly in Britain. These miniature porcelain pieces, adorned with the coat of arms or crest of a specific town or region, became highly collectible mementos for tourists and locals alike. The practice was popularized by companies like W.H. Goss, who mass-produced these items, making them accessible to a wide audience. St. Andrews, a historic town in Scotland known for its prestigious university and world-famous golf course, was a common subject for crested ware. The town's coat of arms, featuring a saltire and various symbolic elements, would have been a recognizable and appealing design for visitors. These jugs are capturing the spirit of Victorian-era tourism and collecting.