A typical domestic water filter of the late Victorian period to remove harmful bacteria, such as those causing typhoid and cholera, from drinking water.
Used mainly in country districts where no public water supply was available.
The small inner container is fitted with five porous unglazed porcelain filter candles through which the impure water passes slowly, to be stored in the outer container.
The candles can be unscrewed, brushed clean, and then sterilised by boiling.
John Doulton founded Doulton & Watts Pottery in Lambeth.
His son Henry joined the firm in 1835 bringing flair, innovation and new products including ceramic water filters.
This example was formerly used at Tedstone Court near Bromyard in Herefordshire.
