Punch bowl

Date1736 (dated)

MediumTin-glazed earthenware (delft)

DimensionsD: 10 5/16"; OH: 4 3/8"

Credit LineMuseum Purchase

Object number1967-54

DescriptionPunch bowl, with tapering up foot ring, decorated in blue on the interior with arms of Weavers' company within acanthus scroll cartouche (shield containing chevron with three roses, separating three leopards' heads each holding in the mouth a shuttle), and at the edge a half inch band of white scroll reserves in a blue ground above a border of four chinoiserie birds separated by floral sprays. The exterior decorated with six panels of floral sprays reserved on a blue ground with shells and scrolls. Inscribed under the foot "MIM" and "1736."Label TextThe interior of this bowl bears the arms of the Worshipful Company of Weavers, one of London's medieval guilds, along with the initials I I M and the date 1736. The weavers' company was involved in the production of textiles, primarily linen, wool and silk.

This is the earliest recorded dated bowl with this shallow shape. The London attribution is based on the glaze and the coat of arms.Inscription(s)Arms of the Weavers company and the initials M over IM and 1736 on the base.Mark(s)NoProvenanceTilley & Co., London