Coffee pot c. 18th century

This delicate coffee pot, of unknown origin, presents a fascinating glimpse into the historical and social rituals surrounding coffee consumption. Before coffee houses became social hubs, coffee pots like this were central to domestic life, especially among women. Imagine the hands that poured from this pot; likely those of a woman, who managed the household and orchestrated the rituals of hospitality. The floral decoration, rendered in a soft purple, adds a layer of femininity, reflecting the gendered roles within the home. This object transcends its function, becoming a vessel of stories, a testament to domesticity and the often-unseen labor of women. As we gaze upon its delicate form, consider the quiet, everyday acts of care and connection it facilitated. It is more than just a coffee pot, it is a symbol of the intimate, gendered spaces where lives unfolded.