Late 19th Century President William McKinley as Napoleon ' Small' Toby Mug, by Morris & Willmore

Description

President William McKinley as Napoleon ' Small' Toby Mug, by Morris & Willmore
Made by Columbian Art Pottery / Morris … more President William McKinley as Napoleon ' Small' Toby Mug, by Morris & Willmore
Made by Columbian Art Pottery / Morris and Willmore of Trenton, New Jersey
This model was made in sizes from 4.5-inches high to 11-inches high.
Retailed and/or decorated by Alfred Evans, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, 1893-1901
Made in sizes from 4.5-inches high to 11-inches high.
The President William McKinley as Napoleon 'Small' Toby Mug, produced by Morris & Willmore of Columbian Art Pottery, is a fascinating piece of American political satire from the late 19th century. Made between 1893 and 1901, this hand-painted pottery toby mug was designed to visually compare President William McKinley to Napoleon Bonaparte, the French military leader and emperor known for his imperialistic ambitions.

The toby mug portrays a plump figure resembling McKinley, adorned with a black tricorn hat, boots, a yellow vest, and a blue waistcoat. The facial features and hair are meticulously painted, adding a touch of realism to the piece.

The choice to depict McKinley as Napoleon serves as political commentary, suggesting that both leaders had imperialistic tendencies. This form of political satire was a common practice during that era, allowing artists and craftsmen to express their opinions on current events and politicians through visual art.

The underside of the toby mug's base is marked with the inscription 'Napoleon Jug, Pat Apl For, Alfred B. Evans, Phila PA.' This indicates that it was retailed and/or decorated by Alfred B. Evans of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.

This toby mug represents a surviving example of late 19th-century American political propaganda and statement work. It serves as a reminder of the political climate and discourse of the time and showcases the creativity and skill of the artisans who crafted it.

As a collector's item or historical artifact, the President William McKinley as Napoleon 'Small' Toby Mug offers a unique glimpse into the political and cultural landscape of the late 19th century in the United States. less