Loving Cup “Ye Olde Foley Ware”

Around 1880

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 porcelain cup is a great example of the popular English blue and white pottery. This cup is part of J. Kent’s “Ye Olde Foley Ware” series, showing three tranquil English country scenes. The Byland Abbey in Yorkshire stands majestically behind a walking couple in one scene. The loving cup was made by Fenton Pottery, one of England’s largest potteries.

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