Mochaware Loving Cup

“Mochaware” was named after the port city of Mocha in Yemen, where moss agate was a major export; the decorated earthenware is visually reminiscent of the gemstone’s pattern, and was produced in Britain, France and the United States as early as the 1780s. The mochaware patterns were achieved by applying an acidic solution onto the wet alkaline slip of the vessel, which caused natural yet unusual patterning. This rare mochaware loving cup was produced in England in 1825, and features tree or fern-like dendritic designs upon a cream background, with bands of umber and chocolate.

Year: c. 1825

Material: Ceramic, slip, glaze

Dimensions: DIA 6 x W 10 x H 7 in