Cup with flower sprays c. 1790

This porcelain cup with flower sprays was made by fabriek Leperre-Durot, though the exact date is unknown. Such pieces offer insight into the domestic lives and social rituals of past eras. Floral designs, like those seen here, became a popular form of decoration, especially during the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries, mirroring an increasing interest in naturalism. Porcelain teacups were not merely functional objects; they became symbols of status and refinement. Drinking tea became a social ritual, particularly for women, who often gathered in the private sphere to share tea, gossip, and build relationships. So, as you admire the delicate details, think about how everyday objects like this can offer a window into the lives, values, and social structures of the people who once held them.