Loving Cup "Hunt Scene"

1880 to 1900

Two or three handled ceramic cups were once the “in” thing to use at celebrations. These odd-looking drinking cups, known as loving cups, showed up around the 15th Century throughout Europe. Ceremonial cups were popular at big celebrations such as weddings, feasts, and university sporting events. The sharing of punch or wine from a loving cup ensured good health to all who drank from it.

This three-handled stoneware cup is covered with moulded and applied decorations. Circling the bottom of the cup is a hunt scene. A man on horseback and his hunting dogs chase a fleeing deer. Above are three scenes; a man leading his horse to a cottage and windmill, a man seated at a table with a drink, and a man seated on a barrel enjoying a drink and smoke. The tan and brown loving cup is possibly an English-made knock-off of a similar pattern made by Royal Doulton.

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