Fuddling cup

A type of puzzle drinking vessel

Fuddling cup

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A collection of fuddling cups

A fuddling cup is a type of ceramic drinking vessel that consists of multiple cups joined together, typically in a cluster of three or more. These cups are interconnected in such a way that liquid can flow between them, creating a puzzle for the drinker to solve in order to drink without spilling.

Design and Function

Fuddling cups are designed to confound the drinker, as the interconnected nature of the cups means that tilting one cup to drink from it can cause the liquid to spill from another. The challenge is to determine the correct sequence and angle to drink from each cup without causing a spill. This makes fuddling cups a popular novelty item and a source of amusement at social gatherings.

Historical Context

Fuddling cups were particularly popular in England during the 17th and 18th centuries. They were often made from earthenware or stoneware and were sometimes decorated with glazes or slips. These cups were used in taverns and at banquets as a form of entertainment, challenging guests to drink without spilling.

Cultural Significance

The use of fuddling cups reflects the social and cultural practices of the time, where drinking games and puzzles were a common form of entertainment. The cups are also an example of the ceramic art and craftsmanship of the period, showcasing the skill of potters in creating complex and functional designs.

Modern Usage

Today, fuddling cups are primarily of interest to collectors and historians of ceramics. They are occasionally reproduced for sale as novelty items or as part of historical reenactments. Museums with collections of historical ceramics may also display fuddling cups as part of their exhibits on drinking culture and social customs.

Related pages

• Ceramic art
• Drinking game
• Puzzle jug