Extremely Rare Anna Pottery Stoneware "Armours Souvenair Pork" Pig Flask, Anna, IL, Dated 1893, molded in the form of a reclining pig with hole at rear, incised details to face and hooves, and anatomically-correct underside. Surface covered in a dark Albany slip glaze and incised on one side "Armours Souvenair (sic) Pork. / From the World's Fair. / Fresh Meat to all Points of / the Globe. Chicago 1893". Reverse incised "Warented (sic) keep in any Climate". Rear incised "Cut Rates to all Points West" above slit testicles. This pig is the first Anna Pottery example we have seen featuring advertising for Armour and Company, the well-known meatpacking business founded in Chicago, Illinois in 1867. By 1880, Armour had established itself, and the city of Chicago, as important figures in the meat industry. The reference to the 1893 Chicago World's Fair indicates pigs of this type were given out at the event by Armour as souvenirs. Evidently, few have survived. Today, Armour is most often recognized for its hot dogs and the well-known jingle, "What kind of kids eat Armour hot dogs?" This pig is molded in an exceptionally small size and plump form. At only six inches long, it is the smallest Anna Pottery pig we have ever offered. Provenance: A fresh-to-the-market example, which descended in the family of the consignor. Excellent condition with two chips to spout. L 6".
