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Belleek Mug
Belleek Mug. This Shamrock Three Handled Mug is part of Belleek's 150th Anniversary Archive Collection. It measures 5.5" (14cm) high. It is numbered and dated with the special 150th Anniversary mark. This unusual piece was designed in the second period (1891-1926). Possibly made as a test piece it has never featured in any catalogue issued by Belleek.
The ancient Greeks made three handled vases called Hydria to carry water from wells. Presumably three handles made it easier for two people to carry these containers. Three handled cups based on ancient Greek designs came into vogue in the early part of the 20th Century as fashionable decorative pieces and it is likely that Belleek followed this trend, adding a distinctive Irish flavour.
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