On this teacup you can see two slightly darkened hairline cracks extending from the rim towards the base of the cup. This teacup now sits on display inside a case in the museum, but the cracks give us a glimpse into its previous life.

It is not uncommon for a coffee mug or teacup to become cracked or crazed* overtime They are, after all, used regularly if not daily, and this one is no different. A small hairline crack is not likely to be noticed immediately; the vessel will still function—and with a well-loved object, the owner will likely continue using it. The hairline crack will slowly darken over time with continued use after the crack forms. As the contents of the cup slowly seep into the cracks, they become stained, and thus more noticeable, especially with a light clay body and glaze.

The fact that we can see this hairline crack, slightly darkened, indicates that it was very likely in use after the cracks formed. We can also see wear to the metallic decoration along the base of the cup and handle, again, likely caused by use. Ceramic mugs, no matter how extravagant or plain, are often well-loved personal objects. Visible damage like this, from regular use, often tells a story that can connect us both with the object and the person who used it.

*craze = a network of minute cracks on the surface or glaze