Potlids

Potlids are just that, lids for pots. Transfer-printed pot lids had their heyday from the 1840s to the early 1900s. The first potlid with a colored transfer print was made in 1846 and was called Polar Bears. The English Staffordshire potteries made ceramic containers with decorative lids for bear's grease, shrimp or meat paste, cold cream, and toothpaste. Printed advertising and pictures of historical events, portraits of famous people, or scenic views were designed in black and white or color. Reproductions have been made. For more information, explore our identification guides for pot lids, other ceramics, and advertising and packaging.