Punch Bowl
Unknown Artist
1785–1800
Medium
Porcelain
Dimensions
H. 5 13/16 in. (14.8 cm); Diam. 14 in. (35.6 cm)
Classification
Punch bowl
Culture
Chinese, for American market
Department
The American Wing
Museum
Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, NY
Credit
Bequest of Elizabeth V. Loudon and Gift of Dana S. Lamb, John C. Dreier, Theodore Dreier, Mrs. Garrett R. Stearly and Mrs. Peter V. D. Voorhees, 1973
Accession Number
1973.167
Tags
About this artwork
This impressive porcelain punch bowl exemplifies the Chinese export trade that flourished following America's independence. Created between 1785 and 1800 and measuring 14 inches in diameter, the bowl was produced in China specifically for the American market, representing the new nation's entry into direct trade with China beginning in 1784. Punch bowls became indispensable at convivial male gatherings in clubs, societies, and private homes along the American East Coast during the Federal period...