Historical information

This demijohn was made by Bendigo Pottery for Sharpe Bros, brewers of non-alcoholic drinks such as Dandelion Ale, Ginger Beer and cordial. Sharpe Bros began in New Zealand and expanded to Australia in the early 20th century. The company was taken over by Cadbury Schweppes in 1972.

Significance

An item made during the first half of the 20th century by a Bendigo pottery as a container made for the Sharpe's brewery in Victoria to contain their non alcoholic drinks for retail sale.

Physical description

Glazed stoneware bottle with dark brown glaze to top section, one gallon size, narrow neck glazed stoneware stopper and wire handle missing.

Inscriptions & markings

SHARPE BROS. AUSTRALIA & NEW ZEALAND Text printed in black on body: 'This bottle is the absolute property of and must be returned to Sharpe Bros. Australia and New Zealand.