Tankard
Date1803 (dated)
MediumSalt-glazed stoneware
DimensionsOH (with handle): 5 11/16 in.; H (with handle): 5 1/8 in.; OL (with handle): 7 1/8 in.; Diameter of foot: 4 7 /16 in.
Credit LineMuseum Purchase
Object number2019-92
DescriptionMug: straight-sided salt-glazed stoneware mug or tankard of cylindrical form with slightly spreading foot; incised inscription "Wm Mund His Cup 1803" between bands of beaded and rouletted decoration; original handle broken at junctures and replaced by period repair composed of hooped and banded tinsmith's type reinforced ear-shaped handle.Label TextNottingham stoneware vessels often bear inscriptions of ownership or commemoration. This straight-sided mug or tankard is no exception with its incised phrase "Wm Mund His Cup 1803", which notes the owner, the vessel form, and a date, most likely commemorating the year when the vessel was made. The inscription is made more significant by the period repairs to the base and handle. The replaced handle and stapled base speak to the vessel's worth in the eyes of its owner who prized the cup enough to repair it rather than throw it away. The craftsmanship of the repair suggests it was undertaken by a skilled tinsmith as the handle is similar in construction to ones often seen on tin coffeepots and other handled tin vessels.
InscribedIncised inscription on body: "Wm Mund His Cup 1803"
