More works of art than utilitarian pieces, cabinet cups and saucers (also called cabinet ware) are highly decorated, richly colored pieces originally commissioned as gifts for royalty as early as the 1700s. Although entire tea, chocolate, and coffee sets were made and used as symbols of status, I personally would never consider using these gorgeous pieces for anything more than cabinet displays.
Most of these unique pieces are valued in the hundreds and thousands of dollars – just for one cup and saucer set. An entire service would be a very rare find and would be priced accordingly. They were crafted by top artisans and porcelain makers in many countries including England, France, Russia, United States, Germany, Denmark, and Vienna.
Some of the striking adornments on these lavish pieces include silver overlay, gilt work, beading, hand-painted portraits and scenes, applied fine porcelain flowers, relief figures, coats of arms, and interiors coated with gold or with additional artwork.
The handles on cabinet cups can hold an interest all their own – besides many of them having unusual, ornate shapes and gilt work, some are shaped to reflect the cup’s theme. Here are several examples:
~ Dresden cup by Carl Thieme with a twig handle;
~ Dresden cup by A. Hamann has a high curled bird handle;
~ Thieme Dresden cup in the shape of a swan, with the gold handle being the swan’s curled neck and head, complete with intricate feather detailing;
~ Rosenthal cup with a gilt eagle handle;
~ Royal Vienna cup with three paw feet and ornate swan handle;
~ Royal Vienna cup with entwined snakes handle;
~ Capodimonte type cup (circa 1890s) with divided branch handle and grape extensions.
The histories behind some of these original pieces are as rich as the work itself, so if you’re lucky enough to buy one, try to check into the company and artist. You may find yourself with a wonderful conversation piece!
You can find some wonderful cup and saucer sets, from cabinet types to fine china to dinnerware at Collector's Cottage. Just click on the link in the right-hand sidebar.
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