Cup and saucer c. 1780 - 1790

This delightful cup and saucer was created by the Caughley (Salopian) Works. It’s made from fine porcelain, a material prized for its smooth, white surface and delicate feel. The blue decoration, applied by hand, showcases skilled brushwork, but beyond that, the entire process speaks to a fascinating moment in design history. Caughley Works was among the English companies that attempted to replicate Chinese porcelain, a luxury good that was in great demand. They were never quite able to unlock the secrets of true porcelain, but their hybrid wares became popular in their own right. The factory system, with its division of labor, allowed for a relatively efficient production of these wares, making them accessible to a growing middle class. So, as you admire this charming cup and saucer, consider it as more than just a pretty object, but as a reminder of the complex social and economic forces that shaped its creation.