Notes

This is a sherd of an unidentified utilitarian vessel, made of a coarse earthenware which archaeologists refer to as Staffordshire mottled or manganese mottled. The paste of this ceramic type is often tan or buff with few, if any, inclusions. In utilitarian vessels, however, the ceramic paste can be a mix of buff and pink clays. The term manganese refers to historic descriptions of the glaze, which features a translucent, brown to tan field with dark brown streaking most often. Current research suggests the coloring agent in the glaze may not be manganese, but rather iron. This kind of ceramic was produced in the Staffordshire region from the late seventeenth century through the third quarter of the eighteenth century.

Staffordshire mottled vessels were often “tavern” wares such as mugs and tankards, but could also include larger utilitarian forms, such as milk pans.


Object Type


Has it Been Conserved?

No


Where Was It Found?

Project Site: House for Families    [more details]


Material

Coarse Earthenware


Vessel

Unidentifiable


Manufacturing Technology

Wheel Thrown


Form

Unid: Utilitarian


Completeness

Base


Date

1680-1780


Country of Origin

England


Dimensions

15mm x 0.0000mm x 25mm (W x H x L)


Illustration shows object in comparison to the size of a quarter


Weight

3 gram(s)


Object Number

1722489. MM V.2

DAACS Number

1722489


Project: House for Families

The structure identified as the “House for Families” on the 1787 Vaughan plan likely housed the majority of the enslaved population living at the Mansion House Farm for much of the second half of the eighteenth century. The building was in existence from circa 1760 until it was demolished in late 1792 or early 1793. The archaeological evidence for the structure consisted of a brick-lined storage cellar (44FX762/40-47) measuring roughly six feet by six feet. Historically the cellar served as a handy trash receptacle once it ceased to be used for its original storage function, and through extensive excavation has yielded an extremely rich assemblage of household refuse. The analysis of these remains offers the opportunity to study important aspects of the daily lives of Mount Vernon's enslaved community.

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Mount Vernon's object research is ongoing and information about this object is subject to change. For information on image use and reproductions, click here.
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