Summary

Bowl used for serving meals in a mental health hospital in Victoria Australia circa 1900. Since insignia on bowl simply says "Lunatic Asylum, Victoria" this bowl may be from the first one at Yarra Bend or was standard issue for all asylums. The term 'lunatic asylum' was in official use until 1903. In 1900, Dr Paul Ward Farmer had a short stay in Kew Lunatic Asylum. He complained about 'having to see Lunatic Asylum in blue letters upon every cup and plate.' P.W. Farmer (Dr): Three Weeks in the Kew Lunatic Asylum. Melbourne, John J. Halligan, 1900.

Physical Description

Small white china bowl rounded at bottom, with high sides. One one side is printed: Lunatic Asylum Victoria, with blue insignia.

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