November 13, 1968

Ceramics in Providence 1750-1800
by Barbara Go Teller
Antiques, October 1968

Most frequent mentioned imported ceramics were delft, salt glaze,
Chinese porcelain, and creamware. Also Whieldon Wedgwood,
Wedgwood and other miscellaneous wares,

1790 inventories of well-to-do indicate an ever increasing
abundance of cream-color wares, and,a decided decrease in the
mention of salt glaze, delft, or colored glaze wares.

Direct trade with China begins in 1785.

People stored ceramics in the room in which they were used,

Best of everything was in the parlor, second best in keeping room
(family living and dining area), oldest or most out-of-date to
back bedrooms or kitchen.

Keeping room disappears and formal dining room emerges after the
Revolution.

The "Great Bedroom" in the wealthy home was often outfitted for
eating and entertaining, a continental custom. In 17th century
America, the terms great bedroom, parlor, and best room were
often synonymous. In small homes and in rural areas this dual-
purpose room survived well into the 19th century.

Eating all meals in the dining room gradually supplanted the old
custom of serving all over the house.

Cream wares were also made in Scotland, France, Spain, and Leeds.