Collection Online as of August 13, 2022
Punch Bowl
Soft-paste porcelain
Face: 11.5 x 27.7 cm (4 1/2 x 10 7/8 in.)
Given in memory of John MacGregor, Jr. and Mary Folger MacGregor, by Mrs. John F. McGuire 1938.331
Location
203A British Painting and Decorative Arts
Description
Encircling the exterior of this bowl are four segments containing fanciful birds with wide eyes, long necks, and colorful feathers. Both the birds and their frames were inspired by Chinese motifs that had been adapted and popularized by the French. During the 1700s, punch drinking was well suited for large social gatherings and served as a popular alternative to tea drinking. In fact, the exotic birds and scrolling cartouches featured on this porcelain punch bowl also adorned many of Worcester’s tea services.
Worcester Porcelain Factory
The longest-lived and considered one of the best English porcelain factories, the Worcester factory was founded in 1751. The first era of the factory's history is known as the "Dr. Wall Period" (1751-1776) after John Wall, who was one of the founders and shareholders.