Loving Cup, Lions and Flowers

Price: £35

Dimensions: Height 8.5 cm, Length 8 cm, Depth 15.5 cm (3.3 in x 3.1 in x 6.1 in)

We noticed the beautiful flowers on this loving cup first, then we spotted the handles. Lions. Flowers and lions, what a completely brilliant combination.

Made by Paragon in England, this fine bone china loving cup dates from around the 1960s to early 1970s. Its simple Paragon Fine Bone China England mark is associated with this period, and the floral decoration makes it a particularly lovely non-commemorative version of the classic lion-handled form.

Traditionally, loving cups were shared ceremonial drinking vessels, passed between guests at weddings, banquets and other grand occasions as symbols of friendship, good fortune and mutual goodwill. This one is equally happy holding a small posy, a collection of pens, or whatever little treasures need somewhere handsome to live.

A little bit of ceremony for the everyday.