Available for sale today is an exceptional black transfer mug from the early 19th century. Black transferware was a popular decorative style for ceramics from the mid-18th century to the 19th century, and it was produced primarily in England. This antique mug is unmarked, and it's possible it dates from an earlier period, when marks were less common or not required. Black transferware was especially popular between the 1820s and 1860s. The design is intricate with fine details, so it is likely from the early part of the 19th century.

The early transfer printing process for ceramics, including mugs, was developed in the mid-18th century, primarily in Staffordshire, England. Here's a step-by-step overview of how black transferware was produced:

1. Engraving the Design: A skilled engraver would create the design by carving it into a copper plate. This was a delicate process, as the engraver had to capture the intricate details that would be transferred onto the ceramic piece.

2. Inking the Plate: The engraved copper plate was then coated with a ceramic ink, which was often a mixture of minerals, including oxides, to create the desired color (in this case, black).

3. Transfer Paper: A thin sheet of tissue paper was pressed onto the inked plate to pick up the design. The inked tissue was then carefully removed from the plate. The ink on the tissue would remain wet and ready for transferring.

4. Applying the Transfer: The tissue paper with the inked design was carefully applied to the ceramic mug, which had already been bisque-fired (fired once to harden it). The artisan smoothed out the tissue, ensuring that the ink adhered evenly to the curved surface. This step required precision, as any wrinkles or misalignment could ruin the design. Observe the handle's applied design, noting how it is slightly misaligned with the handle's surface - an excellent example of the handcrafted nature of the production process.

5. Removing the Paper: Once the ink had transferred, the tissue paper was gently peeled away, leaving the design on the surface of the mug. The ink was now on the ceramic, but it was still delicate at this stage.

6. Glazing and Firing: The mug was then covered with a clear glaze, which served to protect the design and give the piece a glossy finish. The glazed mug was fired in a kiln for a second time, permanently fusing the design into the surface and giving it durability and brilliance.

The black transferware process was labor-intensive, but it allowed manufacturers to produce detailed and consistent designs more efficiently than hand-painting. This technique was instrumental in making decorated ceramics affordable to a broader audience during the 18th and 19th centuries.

Notes

• Please do not hesitate to contact us if you require more photographs to evaluate condition.
• For those residing in the GTA, there's a possibility of coordinating pickup for larger items, so you can save on shipping costs.
• If you are interested in selling something similar please contact us - we buy entire collections.

Shipping and Terms & Conditions

• PLEASE WAIT FOR INVOICE BEFORE MAKING YOUR PAYMENT SO WE CAN CALCULATE AND INCLUDE TAXES AND SHIPPING COSTS.
• CANADIAN BUYERS PAY APPLICABLE TAXES. More information about how we apply taxes.
• We ship within 3-5 business days of receiving payment.
• Items are guaranteed to be authentic and as described. For additional security, we offer a money-back guarantee should a recognized authority argue the authenticity of any item sold.
• We strive to be fair and specific in our descriptions. Please read each auction and bid carefully, as all sales are final.
• Shipping and handling fees are non-refundable. Restocking and other fees may be applicable as well.
• We do not offer refunds unless an item is inadvertently misrepresented (see above). Should a refund be given, it will be only for the cost of the item.
• We will make every attempt to resolve the issue if we inadvertently make a mistake (it happens). If you have any questions, pre- or post-purchase, please do not hesitate to contact us.
• International Buyers: please note that import duties, taxes, and other charges are not included in the item price or shipping fees. These costs are the buyer’s responsibility. We describe items correctly on customs forms.
• In some cases, we are able to combine multiple items to save shipping costs. If you plan to purchase more than one item, delay payment and contact us after you have purchased the first item. Otherwise, all items are sent following cleared payment.