Mug 1800 - 1815

This ceramic mug, made by Durham Co., shows how industrial processes can be used for decorative effect. The lustrous, copper-toned glaze gives the piece an eye-catching metallic sheen. Look closely, and you’ll see that the surface is covered in a dense pattern of impressed flowers, with touches of blue and yellow enamel adding visual punch. This kind of decoration was made possible by advances in ceramic manufacturing during the late 19th century. Techniques like slip-casting and transfer-printing allowed for mass production, bringing affordable ceramics to a wider audience. While this mug may not be high art in the traditional sense, it reflects a desire to bring beauty into everyday life. Consider the labor involved in creating this object. From the mining of raw materials to the skilled craftsmanship required for glazing and decoration, the mug embodies a complex network of social and economic relationships. Ultimately, it challenges us to reconsider the boundaries between art, craft, and industry.