Cup plate c. 1841

This pressed glass "cup plate," created around 1841 by an anonymous artist, commemorates the inauguration of William Henry Harrison as the ninth President of the United States. The plate's design features a profile portrait of Harrison surrounded by an inscription that reads "William Henry Harrison President of the United States Elected for 4 years commencing the 4th of March 1841." This commemorative piece showcases the popularity of pressed glass during the 19th century, when it was used to create affordable decorative items. The plate is currently housed in the collection of The Art Institute of Chicago.