Mug
MakerMade by
Unknown
Date1790-1820
MediumWheel-thrown cream-colored earthenware with maroon underglaze decoration
DimensionsPrimary Dimensions (height x width including handle x depth): 4 7/8 x 4 3/4 x 3 1/2in. (12.4 x 12.1 x 8.9cm)
ClassificationsCeramics
Credit LineGift of Beatrice Cook
Object number1961.48.0
DescriptionCylindrical mug of cream-colored earthenware, a type of ceramic known as creamware. The mug has a flat bottom, vertical sides, and a pulled and applied handle opposite an underglaze transfer-printed maroon design. An oval scene appears below the words "BY VIRTUE AND VALOUR, WE HAVE FREED OUR COUNTRY,/ EXTENDED OUR COMMERCE, AND LAID/ THE FOUNDATION OF A GREAT EMPIRE." The oval scene shows a man in late eighteenth- or early nineteenth-century military uniform, holding a sword, and standing on the body of a lion. A ship floats in a harbor in the background on the right, and there is a small town on the far shore. Three soldiers stand at attention in the background on the left. The oval is surrounded by a relatively plain border with a few motifs representing liberty emerging from the top edge. These motifs include a liberty cap, trumpet, flag, rifle, and a spear. From below the oval, two wreaths curve up around the oval. A small pile of ordinance---cannons, cannon balls, and a barrel of powder---appear where the two wreaths meet. There are many small spots of discoloration or dirt on the rough glaze on the handle and on the rim immediately surrounding the handle.
NotesSubject Note: The figure standing on the head of a lion (the symbol of England) could represent George Washington, or could just indicate an unknown American military officer. This mug probably refers to the American victory during the American Revolution, however, it could also refer to the American victory during the War of 1812. (Hunt 10/25/2004)Status
Not on view
