Summary

This cup was reconstructed from four fragments excavated at one of the digs at the Commonwealth Block site between 1988 and 2003. A saucer with a matching pattern was found close to this cup.

Homewares.
Numerous crockery pieces were found all over the Little Lon site. Crockery gives us a glimpse of everyday life in Melbourne in the 1880s. In the houses around Little Lon, residents used decorated crockery. Most pieces were cheap earthenware or stoneware, yet provided colour and cheer. Only a few could afford to buy matching sets, and most china was probably acquired second-hand. Some were once expensive pieces. Householders mixed and matched their crockery from the great range of mass-produced designs available. 'Blue and white' and the 'willow' pattern, was the most popular choice and was produced by English potteries from 1790.

Physical Description

This cup, which has been reconstructed, is decorated with a blue on white transfer printed underglaze in geometric floral pattern, on the face, upper and lower side.

Physical Description

Matching saucer at 18/26/-/60/-Base diameter 50mm, rim diameter 90mmIncised mark on base reads '1'Found in cess pit, Trench 18. Floral border design with swirls interior and exterior, floral bouquet in centre, floral on handle. Plain handle w/thumb rest.

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