Accession Number

2008.005.013

Description

A glazed white porcelain liquid measure in the form of a thimble. On one side the red and gold crest of the city of Barnstaple, North Devon, England. On the other side in red and black "Take a Thimble full". Around the rim is a gold band and there is knurling on the top to resemble a thimble. The trademark inside the measure reads "A & S Stoke-on-Trent Arcadian China".

Narrative

Over-sized thimble shaped liquid measures were common novelty items in the early 20th century and were often used as decorations or souvenirs. These were often decorated with miscellaneous coats-of-arms including the arms of the seaside resorts where they were sold before WW1, a style known as crested ware. The Arkinstall and Sons Arcadia line was known for their crested ware pieces. 

History of Use

The donor was a collector of needlework items and left this to Craigdarroch as part of a large bequest of sewing tools. 

Date

1904 – 1924

Dimensions

4 x 3.5 cm

Material

Ceramic, porcelain

Brand Name

Arcadia; Arcadian China

Technique

Moulded; Glazed

School/Style

crested ware

Country of Origin

United Kingdom