Stirrup cup

Date1900

MediumStoneware, unglazed, red

DimensionsOL: 4 1/4"; H: 1 7/8"

Credit LineGift of Harry H. and Alma Louise Coon

Object number1997-192

DescriptionStirrup cup in the form of a fox's head with ears pressed close to head. Fox is reddish- brown in color and decorated with its fur in relief. The opening is edged by alternating leaves and grape clusters in relief.
Label TextStirrup cups are an English adaptation of the ancient Rhyton, a pottery cup in the form of a head that was used in Greece, Italy, and Asia Minor. Stirrup cups were usually in the shape of the head of a fox or hound, but they are also found in the form of hares, stags, cocks, bears, trout, and other dogs. These cups were traditionally used for toasts to the hunt when the mounted riders were about to depart and were held inverted while in use, therefore not requiring a handle or foot. Earthenware stirrup cups were made in Staffordshire after ca. 1765 and porcelain cups after 1770.
MarkingsMarked Wedgwood; not period, not factory.