Soup Plate c. 1775

This 18th-century ceramic soup plate set from the Minneapolis Institute of Art is a beautiful example of a “Soup Plate” set, which would have been used to serve a soup or broth to guests. The set contains a large tureen for serving soup, a smaller bowl for serving sauce, and a set of smaller plates, likely for individual portions. The set is made of cream-colored earthenware, and each piece has a delicately molded edge and decorative moldings. The set is a fine example of English ceramics of the late 18th-century.