A Fine 17th Century Wassail Bowl

The wassail bowl would have been a cup to be used at ceremonial or convivial gatherings. There are many recipes for the drink which is based on apples, but spices, port, madeira, can all be added. Occasionally, egg whites are beaten into the blend, which makes a froth and is known as 'lambs wool'. Although the recipes differ, the bowls themselves are nearly always made from lignum vitae and have different turned, stringed bands around the body. This example is a good size, measuring 10.5 inches in height, and 9.75 inches diameter.The body has two stringed bands and stands on a turned, stepped foot. The condition is excellent, and the lignum vitae has a beautiful original skin, which has never been cleaned.

English, circa 1660-1700

The excellent book "Domestic Utensils of Wood" by Owen Evan Thomas has much information on Wassail Bowls of the 16th and 17th centuries (pages 9 to 30)

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