Cup and saucer 1933

This cup and saucer was made by Frank Graham Holmes, most likely in the early twentieth century, using glazed porcelain. This material is prized for its smooth, almost translucent quality, achieved by firing clay at incredibly high temperatures. The cup and saucer have been decorated with a transfer-printed image in brown, likely depicting a historic house in Charleston, South Carolina. Transfer printing allowed for detailed images to be reproduced on a mass scale, making them more accessible to consumers. Notice the gilded rims, adding a touch of luxury to an otherwise functional object. Holmes was art director at Lenox China, one of the most successful American ceramics manufacturers. His background is important, as it brings to mind the many unseen hands who contributed to its manufacture. The artistry lies not only in the image, but in the complex system of production that brought it into being. By examining the materials and processes, we see how everyday objects can reflect broader social and economic structures.