Demitasse Cup and Saucer

Art Historical Context

Nestled in The American Wing of the Metropolitan Museum Art, this delicate *Demitasse Cup anducer* (ca. 1860–66) exemplifies the exquisite porcelain craftsmanship of Chinese artisans tailored for the American market.ed from fine porcelain, the cup stands just 2 inches tall, with a saucer measuring 4¼ inches in diameter—perfectly sized for savoring a small after-dinner coffee, or *demitasse*, a European import that gained popularity in mid-19th-century AmericaProduced during a peak era of Sino-American trade, this piece reflects the global exchange of goods amid the U.S. Civil War years. Chinese export porcelain, renowned for its high-fired, translucent quality and durability, flooded Western markets as luxury tableware. Factories in Canton and Jingdezhen specialized in such items, often customized with Western tastes in mind, symbolizing status and cosmopolitan flair for affluent American households. A generous gift to the Met in 1960, this unassuming yet elegant set highlights how everyday objects bridged cultures, blending Eastern technical mastery with American domestic life. Visitors can appreciate its subtle refinement, a testament to porcelain's enduring allure as both art and utility.