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2009 Record shot by C. Lafiandra. Cup.
Miniature coffee cup
2009 Record shot by C. Lafiandra. Cup.

Miniature coffee cup

Dateca. 1800
OriginAsia, China
MediumPorcelain, hard-paste, over-glaze pink enamel and gilding
DimensionsOverall: 2in. (5.1cm)
Credit LineGift of Mr. & Mrs. Charles W. Ridinger, III
Object number2009-47
DescriptionMiniature porcelain coffee cup with loop handle. The cup is decorated with alternating pink grape clusters and gilt leaves around the exterior rim. Additional pink and gilt grape clusters adorn the front of the cup opposite the handle. All the decoration is in over-glaze pink enamel and gilding.
Label TextMiniature or child-sized tea and coffee services were owned by wealthy American families. Services of the type that this coffee cup originally belonged to were used by children to help them learn proper deportment with regard to the important rituals of tea and coffee. The design on this cup is particularly associated with Chinese porcelain made for the American market.
ProvenanceMr. and Mrs. Chalres W. Ridinger III