Antique Spode Copelands China Mustache Cup/Saucer - T. Goode & Co - AS IS

Description

A very interesting,
rare and lovely antique set by Copelands China
. Beautiful and unique
Mustache Cup/Saucer set
depicting scattered floral sprays and decorations on relief mold/hard paste white porcelain body. It is absolutely beautiful and darling. I combined the set with an octagonal floral Rosenthal plate. I just thought these look lovely as a set.
However the cup has been repaired and I’m selling this set in
AS IS
condition. There is also a tiny hairline on the saucer (not noticeable). The Bavarian plate in very good condition with just minor wear
It is a beautiful example of a famous mustache cup.
Mustache cup background:
Invented in England sometimes in the mid-1800, these were so popular that they quickly spread from England to Europe and to the US.
During those times, an impressive mustache was one of the most important attributes in men’s appearance and fashion, but up-keeping was quite a task. One can only imagine difficulties presented when hot liquids would melt the mustache wax, that men used to keep one’s “stache” in order. The invention of a mustache cup presented a perfect solution.
But things changed during the World War I times. Mustache and mustache cups suddenly fell out of fashion. Mustache upkeeping was challenging for army men as they struggled to maintain good grooming in the trenches. Another important factor, proper wear of a gas mask would be very difficult because mustache would prevent a proper seal and as a result, poisonous substances would get through.
So fashion changed in the early 20th century but came back shortly after, in the 1920s. However, the mustache cups never came back and became a rather a part of history. It is not often to stumble upon one today.
These are collectible and the values vary greatly, depending on quality, maker etc.
This lovely piece is by Copelands china. It also carries a
mark of a very prominent London retailer - T. Goode &Co.
This piece is damaged but despite that, it is rare and unique and of top quality maker. It’s a great conversational piece to add to the collection. The damage on old rare pieces only makes them more real and treasured. It was important for someone to put it back together.