The Perfect Mocha Ware Mug Checkerboard Pattern Ivory & Chocolate Brown Marked Austria Circa 1800s Holiday Edition [pTwWv9Hj]

MOCHA WARE Mug: Vintage Checkerboard Beauty

This exquisite MOCHA WARE mug, adorned with a classic checkerboard pattern, is a true gem from the 1800s. Crafted with meticulous attention to detail, this collectible piece showcases the artistry of the era. The creamy ivory and deep chocolate brown hues create a striking contrast, while the rim and base are adorned with deep chocolate bands, adding to the mug's visual appeal. The mug's dimensions are 2 ¾” tall by 3 ¾” wide, with a rim opening of about 2 ¼” in diameter, making it perfect for your morning coffee or afternoon tea. One of the standout features is the geometric check design, meticulously created using an engine-turning lathe. This technique leaves behind distinctive lathe marks, a testament to the craftsmanship involved. The potter's skillful application of colors and glaze results in a vibrant and durable finish.

Product Specifications and Benefits

• Dimensions: 2 ¾” tall by 3 ¾” wide, with a rim opening of 2 ¼” in diameter.
• Pattern: Creamy ivory and deep chocolate checkerboard with deep chocolate bands on the rim and base.

The mug's overall condition is good, with minimal wear and tear, such as small areas of missing glaze near the bottom and rim, and minor cracks running up the side. Despite these minor imperfections, the mug remains an exceptional piece of Mocha Ware history. Its unique design, historical significance, and practical size make it an ideal addition to any collection or home.

Understanding Mocha Ware: A Historical Perspective

Mocha Ware, an English-made dipped earthenware, holds a special place in history as utilitarian pottery used in taverns and modest homes. Despite its everyday use during the 1790 to 1830 period, Mocha Ware was not cherished like porcelain, which makes this mug a highly sought-after piece. The English produced Mocha Ware almost exclusively for the American market, with Staffordshire and Yorkshire leading the production. The creation of Mocha Ware involved minimal decoration, with a runny clay and water mixture known as "slip" applied to the pottery. A unique tea made from tobacco juice, turpentine, hops, and urine was then applied, resulting in the delicate dendritic patterns found in the glaze. This process, combined with painted, scratched, or stamped designs, created a wide array of colors and layers. The fact that this mug is marked "AUSTRIA 00" adds to its rarity and value.