Mug 1892

This mug was made by the Rookwood Pottery Company, which operated from 1880 to 1967. It's made of earthenware, decorated with colored slips and then electroplated with silver. The lustrous surface of the mug draws attention to the intricate process of its making. The Rookwood Pottery Company was known for its innovative use of underglaze slip painting, a technique that allowed artists to create highly detailed, painterly designs on ceramic surfaces. The silver electroplating adds a layer of luxury, transforming a functional object into a decorative showpiece. Rookwood was founded by Maria Longworth Nichols Storer, who wanted to provide opportunities for women artists. The company became successful for blending art with industry. This mug demonstrates the social context of the American Arts and Crafts movement, which sought to elevate craft to the level of fine art, while also improving industrial design. Appreciating this mug, you will gain a new appreciation for the skill of its makers and the cultural values it embodies.