Pair of mugs
ca. 1810
Medium
Hard-paste porcelain
Dimensions
Overall (each, with handle): 8 3/4 × 9 1/2 in. (22.2 × 24.1 cm)
Classification
Ceramics-Porcelain-Export
Culture
Chinese, for British market
Department
European Sculpture and Decorative Arts
Museum
Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, NY
Credit
Gift of Irwin Untermyer, 1964
Accession Number
64.101.795, .796
Tags
Art Historical Context
This exquisite pair of mugs, crafted in hard-paste porcelain 1810 by Chinese artisans for the British market showcases the artistry of English painter Samuel Howitt. Howitt, renowned for his lively depictions of equestrian sports and hunting scenes, likely provided the designs that were meticulously hand-painted onto these export wares. Standing at nearly 9 inches tall with handles, these substantial mugs were ideal for hearty British ale or punch, blending Eastern technical precision—hard-paste porcelain's durability and translucency—with Western tastes. The decorations feature dynamic vigne...