Plate
Dateca. 1810
MediumLead-glazed earthenware (china glaze / pearlware)
DimensionsOverall: 3/4 × 7 3/8 in (1.9 × 18.73cm)
Credit LineGift of James S. Lawrence
Object number2025-73
DescriptionPlate: circular plate with molded wavy shell-edged border. The edge painted blue; the well of the plate transfer printed in blue with the following verse within a circular reserve bordered by a band of leaves between a single blue line and two concentric blue lines: "Let the wealthy and great / Roll in splendour and state / I envy them not I declare it / I eat my own Lamb / My own Chickens and Ham / I shear my own fleece and I ware it".Label TextFragments of blue and green molded shell-edged dishes have been uncovered at archaeological sites throughout late-18th and early 19th century America. Often identified by their color and “edge” or “edged,” molded shell-edged wares were advertised in period newspapers and listed in inventories, as well. The verse on this example dates to around 1801 and was known by various titles including The Farmer’s Toast, Success to the Farmer, the Jolly Farmer, and God Speed the Plough.Inscription(s)The well of the plate transfer printed in blue with the following verse: "Let the wealthy and great / Roll in splendour and state / I envy them not I declare it / I eat my own Lamb / My own Chickens and Ham / I shear my own fleece and I ware it".
ca. 1811