Images(2)

Saucer

Dateca. 1740

OriginAsia, China, Jingdezhen

MediumPorcelain, hard-paste

DimensionsD: 5 3/8"

Credit LineColonial Williamsburg Foundation

Object numberT125-2013,7

DescriptionSaucer excavated from the site of Henry Wetherburn’s Tavern, 09NA–01596
Label TextChinese porcelain decorated with this combination of cobalt blue, iron-red, and gilding is known today as “Imari” after the Japanese port from which much of it was shipped during the 17th century, when Chinese kilns were not operational. The color palette was particularly popular in colonial Virginia. This saucer was excavated from the site of Henry Wetherburn’s Tavern on Duke of Gloucester Street. Wetherburn purchased the property in 1738 and operated a tavern there until his death in 1760, at which time a detailed inventory was taken. The ceramics and glass included five red-and-white China cups and four saucers. “Red and white” was a period term used to describe the Imari palette.

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