Images(2)

Child's Mug

MakerMade by Unknown

Date1825-1845

MediumMechanically-molded buff-colored earthenware with a blue-tinted glaze and underglaze black decoration

DimensionsPrimary Dimensions (height x width including handle x depth): 2 7/16 x 3 3/8 x 2 9/16in. (6.2 x 8.6 x 6.5cm)

ClassificationsCeramics

Credit LineConnecticut Museum of Culture and History collection

Object number1950.280.0

DescriptionSmall, round mug of buff-colored earthenware with a blue-tinted glaze, a type of ceramic known as pearlware. The mug has a molded and applied handle, as well as a transfer-printed design in black applied under the glaze. The design consists of geometric patterns, one scene, and several sayings penned by Benjamin Franklin. These begin to the right of the handle, wrap around the mug, and end at the left of the handle. Beginning at the right of the handle, are the words "BEING LESSONS FOR YOUTH/ ON/ INDUSTRY/ TEMPERANCE/ FRUGALITY & c". These words are printed between two triangles that are filled with geometric patterns. One triangle is below the words, and the other triangle is inverted above the words. After this come the two phrases "If you would know the value of money try to borrow some" and "When the well is dry they knw [sic] the worth of water". These two phrases are found above and below, respectively, the only scene printed on the mug. The scene shows an older gentleman sitting in an armchair in front of a table with a small dog at his feet. Two boys, one in short pants and one in long, both wearing dark coats and holding hats, stand in front of the old man. Grass on the ground and a window and door in the background suggest that the scene is set outside. To the right of this scene, and to the left of the handle, are the words "THE WAY TO WEALTH/ OR/ DR FRANKLIN'S/ Poor Richard/ ILLUSTRATED". Like Franklin's phrases found to the right of the handle, these words are printed between two triangles that are filled with geometric patterns. One triangle is below the words, and the other triangle is inverted above the words.

There is a minor amount of discoloration at the rim of the mug, where some of the glaze has rubbed off. There is a crack in the glaze on the bottom of the mug, also the site of discoloration.

Status

Not on view