Coffeepot

Dateabout 1805-1810

MediumWheel-thrown buff-colored earthenware with a blue-tinted glaze and underglaze cobalt blue decoration

DimensionsPrimary Dimensions (height including lid x width x depth): 11 1/2 x 10 x 6in. (29.2 x 25.4 x 15.2cm)

ClassificationsCeramics

Credit LineBequest of Martha R. Lambert

Object number1979.68.715a-b

DescriptionTall, bulbous coffeepot (.a) and lid (.b) of buff-colored earthenware with a blue-tinted glaze, a type of ceramic known as pearlware. The coffeepot and lid are decorated in a Chinoiserie transfer-printed pattern of underglaze cobalt blue. The pattern found on both sides of the coffeepot is called "Buffalo," named for the image of a boy riding a buffalo in a Chinese landscape. The boy is speaking with two male figures in front of a cave at the left of the landscape. He points to the right toward a Chinese structure. A river, hills, and trees decorate the middle and far distances. The rim of the coffeepot and domed lid are decorated with a geometric, or lattice, pattern interrupted at regular intervals by semi-circular areas of white. Additional patterns of flowers and geometric shapes are transfer-printed on the handle, spout, and lid. The handle was pulled and applied to the side of the coffeepot opposite the molded spout. The lid has a small finial on top and a small hole to let steam escape.

The coffeepot has overall crazing and a crack in the rim and neck to the left of the spout. The coffeepot has yellowed considerably over time, while the lid has remained off-white. A large portion of the lid broke off at some time in the past and has been reattached.

NotesHistorical Note: The home of Martha Ruhamah Tryon Lambert (1892-1979) was located at 712 Main Street in South Glastonbury, Connecticut.

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