Measures verified for the Isle of Man are very rare, and this unique gallon has seven different verification marks on its rim with variations of the arms of Man – 3 legs joined at the hip. Interestingly, the earliest mark is from Liverpool with a liver bird flanked by a crowned WR, meaning the measure was first verified before 1840 when the Isle of Man had official standards from the British Exchequer. Possibly, this is one of the earlier ‘standard’ measures used on the Island, and may date to the early 19th century. Although having no maker’s mark, I am certain the measure was made in Liverpool, which is the only location where handles with lozenge shaped terminals were used on vessels. There is a plouk in the neck, which allows it to be used to measure Ale Standard (full to the brim), and Imperial Standard (to the plouk). In very good used condition, with lustrous polished patina. 13½" tall, 11" across the handles, with mouth and base diameters of 2¼" and 6⅝”. From base to top of cylindrical body it is 7⅜" tall. 2.5kg weight. A quart version of this rare form of measure probably used for rapid emptying of liquid into a large container was also sold recently. REF: C3913
