Rare and Very Early Pearlware Glazed Small Mug

A very early circa 1800 small and very delicately potted mug some 2.25 high (5.8cms) with a Sunderland lustre top band and finished in a pearlware glaze with an overpainted design of leaves, flowers and fruit all round the side and a thin lustre band at the base. These diminutive mugs are often described as being for children but that is not the case they were designed for adults for special occasions such as drinking tea which was a very expensive commodity in those days. Save for a 1 or so hairline visible more on the inside opposite the handle (See pic 5) it is in undamaged condition, there being no chips or repairs or any loss of the enamelling. There is some minor rubbing of the Sunderland lustre around the top rim but this is to be expected. I’ve had this for many years, surely 45 years+, in a display cabinet but we moved to a much smaller place recently and I’m having to dispose of my ceramic (and art) collections as we simply do not have the room to display them. For such a delicate item to have survived for so long and be in such good condition is quite remarkable. I’d rather not send it Small Packet for fear of damage so t. Double box it for extra safety. It will come well wrapped.