Demitasse and Saucer
MakerMade by
Unknown
Date1870-1875
MediumMechanically-molded porcelain with gilding and overglaze enamels in red, black, and brown
DimensionsComponent (height x width including handle x depth of demitasse): 2 3/16 x 3 1/4 x 2 1/2in. (5.6 x 8.3 x 6.4cm)
Component (diameter of saucer): 4 3/4in. (12.1cm)
ClassificationsCeramics
Credit LineGift of Mabel Johnson
Object number1952.78.3a-b
DescriptionRound, glassy, porcelain demitasse and saucer. The demitasse (.a) has a thick line of gilding over a thin line of gilding on the inside of the rim, with just one line of thin gilding on the outside of the rim. A handle, with a tapered line of gilded decoration, is applied opposite the primary decoration on the demitasse. This consists of three red stars over two horizontal red lines inside a shield that is outlined in black. Over the shield, a brown and black bird holds a gilded and red enamel crown. To the left of the shield are the initials "GW" in gilded script, and to the right of the shield are the initials "MW" in gilded script. An arched line of thirteen gilded stars is applied above the initials, shield, bird, and crown.
The saucer (.b) is decorated with a thick line of gilding outside of a thin line of gilding at the rim. There is an additional thin line of gilding applied where the rim dips down to the bottom of the saucer. Finally, the gilded date, "1875", and location, "Hartford", are applied on opposite sides of the rim. There is one small chip in the rim of the saucer that leads to a very short hairline crack.
NotesHistorical Note: The inscription refers to the Martha Washington reception held at the Allyn Hall in Hartford, Connecticut, on 21 and 22 April 1875. The purpose of the reception was to raise funds for the Union for Home Work. The entertainment consisted of a concert by Colt's Band, the reception of a couple dressed as General and Mrs. Washington and their suite dancing the minuet, and the presentation of a tableau depicting Huntington's painting of "Lady Washington's Levee." There were thirteen booths, representing the thirteen original colonies, from which historical relics and artifacts were sold. Wooden nutmegs were sold at the Connecticut booth. The event was very successful, raising about $4000.The saucer (.b) is decorated with a thick line of gilding outside of a thin line of gilding at the rim. There is an additional thin line of gilding applied where the rim dips down to the bottom of the saucer. Finally, the gilded date, "1875", and location, "Hartford", are applied on opposite sides of the rim. There is one small chip in the rim of the saucer that leads to a very short hairline crack.
Status
Not on view
