Cup Plate, 1830-1850

Summary

Americans in the early 19th century poured hot tea into their saucers to cool -- leaving the staining liquid around the teacup's base. Hostesses would provide guests with cup plates to prevent damage to tablecloths and wood. Pressed glass cup plates were popular from the 1820s to the 1860s. Pressed designs varied from purely decorative to images of famous men, places and events.

Americans in the early 19th century poured hot tea into their saucers to cool -- leaving the staining liquid around the teacup's base. Hostesses would provide guests with cup plates to prevent damage to tablecloths and wood. Pressed glass cup plates were popular from the 1820s to the 1860s. Pressed designs varied from purely decorative to images of famous men, places and events.

Artifact

Cup plate

Date Made

1830-1850

Place of Creation

United States, Eastern United States 

Creator Notes

Probably made in the Eastern United States.

Location

Not on exhibit to the public.

Object ID

00.3.7339

Credit

From the Collections of The Henry Ford.

Material

Pressed glass
Glass (Material)

Color

Cobalt blue (Color)

Dimensions

Diameter: 3.625 in

Inscriptions

HENRY CLAY

Connect 3

Discover curious connections between artifacts.

Learn More