Pair of mugs

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 vignettes of horses, firearms, men, and expansive landscapes, capturing the thrill of 19th-century fox hunts and sporting life. Such motifs were immensely popular among Britain's upper classes, symbolizing leisure, adventure, and social status. Chinese export porcelain like this flourished during the late 18th and early 19th centuries, as European demand spurred factories in Canton and Jingdezhen to adapt their renowned ceramic skills to custom European imagery. A gift to the Metropolitan Museum of Art in 1964, these mugs highlight the global exchange of culture and commerce, where Howitt's spirited aquatint-style illustrations met Chinese mastery, creating enduring treasures that evoke Regency-era revelry.