Loving Cup "Red Flowers"

Around 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 two-handled porcelain cup is decorated with a hand-painted chinois pattern. Red blossoms with navy leaves and gilded accents surround the cup. The signature on the bottom of the loving cup gives no hint to who or where this loving cup was made. 

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