Measure c. 18th century

Editor: Here we have "Measure," dating back to the 18th century, artist unknown. It is ceramic and has an appealing dull sheen and sturdy form. Something about it is comforting...like it could warm you up in the winter with something like hot cocoa or maybe grog? How do you interpret this utilitarian piece? Curator: Utilitarian is a good word for it. For me, it’s a little portal. I imagine the hand that held it, the person who poured from it, what their life might have been like, the sounds of their home or the tavern where it sat. Do you feel a similar tug, looking at objects like this? Editor: I definitely do, but maybe not as vividly as you. I see that tiny embellishment where the handle connects to the lid, and it’s almost playful in contrast to the mug’s seriousness. Was that common? Curator: Details like that were a maker’s signature. I wonder if that specific flourish might tell us where it was crafted. It suggests a wink amid the work, wouldn't you agree? I mean the object’s very *being* screams to me to make every day an exquisite doodle. But that may be my maximalist spirit, and too much tea talking. Editor: You see joy in it. That’s great. I like that it isn't too ornate, while that one tiny addition shows the character of who crafted it. It’s lovely how much story can hide within a simple object. Curator: Exactly. Now, you get to pour *your* own story... into the world. Maybe into a grog mug someday!