Cup and Saucer with an Abolitionist Scene

Etruria Works, c. 1853 - c. 1863

This cup and saucer were probably made for a Dutch women’s committee dedicated to the fight against slavery. Faith was important in this pursuit, as indicated by the text on the saucer. We see a kneeling, chained man begging for freedom. Used by the European anti-slavery movement, this image belies the gruelling, active struggle for freedom and abolition of slavery by enslaved people themselves.

  • Artwork typecup
  • Object numberNG-1994-53-A
  • Dimensionsdiameter 3.7 cm, height 6 cm x diameter 7 cm
  • Physical characteristicsporselein