Coffee urn c. 1760 - 1770

This is a ceramic coffee urn, standing just over 30 centimeters tall, crafted by ‘t Fortuyn. Coffee entered European society as a product of global trade, deeply entwined with colonialism and the exploitation of labor. Drinking coffee became a social ritual that signaled one's status and engagement with global commerce. This urn, with its Delftware-style blue and white decoration, reflects an intriguing intersection of global trade and local artistry. The face that functions as the tap is a symbolic reminder of the human element behind the commodity. As you consider this urn, reflect on the global exchange of goods and ideas that shape our cultural practices and identities. It serves as a potent reminder of the complex layers of history that a simple object can embody.