Loving Cup “Field Sports”

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 two-handled porcelain cup tells the tale of a pheasant hunt. On one side, two men follow a dog chasing a flying pheasant. Another side shows a hunter firing at the pheasant. The dog runs to retrieve the prize on the third side. An oak leaf and acorn transfer print decoration runs along the handles and interior rim. The loving cup was made by EM and Co. of England.