Signatures on a document from two historic bartmann traders

Archival sources

We're carrying out archival research in Germany, the Netherlands, and the UK to learn more about the global distribution of Bartmann jugs and their cultural significance...

decorative image

Cultural contexts

Bartmann jugs weren’t just tableware. They were a part of everyday culture and used for many different reasons...

decorative image

Design and technology

Bartmann jugs have an iconic design with a bearded face. We're investigating how they developed and how this technology and design spread around the world...

decorative image

Global distribution

We're connecting with archaeologists, museum professionals, and curators to better understand how Bartmann jugs were used and viewed across the world...

decorative image

Jug types

Bartmann jugs’ distinctive bearded faces and decorative medallions have been key to their success and long-lasting popularity. But over time, their shape, design, and decorative elements changed...