A straightforward cylinder mug form provides the ground for a black transfer scene of chil...

A straightforward cylinder mug form provides the ground for a black transfer scene of children engaged in street play. Three boys gather before their houses to challenge each other's skills with spinning tops. Simple as the scene seems, it manages to capture the specifics of the game. Note the tops at the feet of the middle player; one is already skidding to the right, knocked over by the winner's top. Broad dabs of red, yellow and green enamel highlight the decoration.

Mugs intended for the nursery are frequently simple in form and sturdy in weight. Obviousl...

Mugs intended for the nursery are frequently simple in form and sturdy in weight. Obviously they were subjected to far rougher treatment than juvenile plates and survive today in far smaller quantities. Nevertheless, they provide a fascinating visual documentation of childhood play customs, costumes, and sometimes details of the interiors and exteriors of homes.