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Veilleuse or Food and Beverage Warmer
Veilleuse or Food and Beverage Warmer
Veilleuse or Food and Beverage Warmer

Veilleuse or Food and Beverage Warmer

PeriodCirca 1770
Place MadeEngland
MediumSoft paste porcelain with tin glaze
Dimensions6.88 × 6.5 in. (17.5 × 16.5 cm)
ClassificationsFood Service, Serving Vessels
Credit LineMuseum Purchase, 1980
Object number1979.511.10
DescriptionA cylindrical vessel with slightly molded foot rim and a plain top edge rim.. A large scalloped opening allows access to the interior base. A pair of molded grotesque faces adorn the front and back center just below the rim, and a pair of molded scroll handles are on either side midway down the body. The outer surface is ornamented with bright blue scrolls, leaves, and flowers, with narrow banding along top and bottom edges.
Curatorial RemarksThis vessel was often known as a "veilleuse, from the French word "veiller," meaning to keep a night vigil. Containers of this type were found in nurseries or in sick rooms. A small candle was placed in the lower opening, and a dish, cup, or bowl was placed atop the upper opening. The candle provided a low, steady warmth.