Naval traditions and culture encompass a wide range of activities, events, and objects, often unique to naval service. Some, like the "crossing the line" (meaning, the equator) ceremony, are old and well-established, while others, such as gun shield art, related directly to Second World War experiences. Many reflect companionship, commemoration, recreation, or esprit de corps.
British Admiral Sir John Jellicoe, a prominent pre-war and wartime naval commander, is the subject of this First World War Toby jug.
The figure of Jellicoe, in full dress naval uniform and cocked hat, sits on a base marked with the Royal Navy's White Ensign. He holds a jug marked "Hell Fire Jack", a nickname arising from the improvements he made to gunnery during his time as director of naval ordnance. This jug is one of a series created by British political cartoonist Francis Carruthers Gould that caricatures Allied military leaders and politicians.
Toby Jug
CWM 19760495-005