Thursday, February 26, 2015

Collect the whole set!


MUG: I recently acquired yet another 1980s Waechstersbach novelty mug from the Art Institute of Chicago. All the usual physical accolades about this mug apply.

COFFEE: Guatemalan Antigua. Organic, Free-Trade, freshly medium-light roasted.

NOTES: I previously have purchased white, blue, and grey versions of this 'Famous Artists' mug, all made in Spain. This one is different. The glaze is the fantastic molten-lava red that you just have to see in person. Similar to the radioactive (literally) red glaze that Fiestaware used years ago, but with a two-tone element that looks like hot flowing lava and the slightly cooler, darker surface.  In addition, this mug is unique in that was not not made in Spain, but in Germany, "W GERMANY" to be exact (which also dates the mug to no later than the mid 1980s).

Of personal interest, Raoul Dufy was one of my mother's favorite artists, while Marcel Duchamp is one of mine. Both signatures are visible above (and examples of their work can be seen at the Art Institute of Chicago).




Tuesday, February 24, 2015

Freeze Relief


MUG: Waechstersbach (Germany) winter motif mug. I love the glaze-resist decoration method, and the deep royal blue color.

COFFEE: Guatemalan Antigua from Central Market.

NOTES: Late February freezing cold spell. Off work conveniently. Fire in the fireplace. Appropriate occasion for the mug.