Earthenware gotlschussel or porringer, polychrome, European

Porringers are small food bowls used for porridge. They usually have one or two handles and are made in a range of materials. They were often used when feeding the sick or elderly.

This example is made of glazed earthenware and is decorated with a picture of St Barbara who is believed to protect against various diseases and is also the patron saint of those faced with sudden death by lightning, collapsing mines and cannon-balls. The story goes that she converted to Christianity much to the anger of her father who tried to kill her. She was saved when her father was hit by lightning. There is a small lightning bolt in the top left of the bowl. Porringers may also have been used in bloodletting.