The Lord Nelson Loving Cup

Designer Charles Noke (British, 1858-1941)

Artist Harry Fenton (British)

Maker Royal Doulton Limited (British, 1901 - 2009)

Date1935

Object number00008640

NameLoving cup

MediumCeramic: Earthenware

DimensionsOverall: 260 x 250 x 180 mm

ClassificationsCommemorative artefacts

Credit LineANMM Collection

Terms

DescriptionScenes from the 1805 Battle of Trafalgar are depicted on this limited edition loving cup (number 19 of 600). It shows Admiral Lord Nelson on the deck of HMS VICTORY and two ships engaged in battle. Nelson successfully led the British navy against Napoléon Bonaparte's combined French and Spanish fleets, but he was fatally shot by a French sniper in the conflict.HistoryOn 21 October 1805, the Battle of Trafalgar was fought off the south-west coast of Spain. It turned the tide against the French Emperor Napoléon Bonaparte's threatened invasion of Britain. Under the command of Vice Admiral Lord Horatio Nelson, the Royal Navy defeated the combined French and Spanish fleets - but it came at a high price when Nelson was mortally wounded. The death of Nelson at the Battle of Trafalgar in 1805 was a great blow to the British people. It also created a huge industry in commemorative wares which continues to this day. Horatio Nelson is one of the most commemorated figures in British history and any place even remotely connected with him produces souvenirs ranging from postcards and bookmarks to glassware and ceramics. Landmark celebrations were held in 1855 and 1905 and the most lavish in 2005. SignificanceThe loving cup is testimony to Nelson's ongoing appeal and lifetime achievements. It belongs to a series of Royal Doulton cups featuring great historical figures including Charles Dickens, George Washington, James Cook, Arthur Phillip and Lord Nelson.