Loving Cup “Hunting Cup”

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 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 windmill, a willow tree, and a man seated at a table drinking. The handles are mould-made in the shape of running dogs. The tan and brown loving cup was made by Royal Doulton of England.