The three handled loving cup or tyg is a traditional folk form--handy for passing around a...

The three handled loving cup or tyg is a traditional folk form--handy for passing around a communal draught of ale. The revived form was made popular in the latter part of the nineteenth century by Doulton and other potters.

Wedgwood's dark blue jasper dip version is divided into six sections framed by a decorative trellis device.  Three sections display a classical muse while the alternating sections display an oval acanthus medallion beneath each handle. 

The combination of classical muses with a form from European folk traditions is a mix that...

The combination of classical muses with a form from European folk traditions is a mix that demonstrates the eclecticism of the late Victorian era. The figures derive from the Flaxman models of 1776/7.

The muses depicted are:

Calliope,  Muse of Epic Poetry -- gestures with one upraised hand, a roll of paper in the other

Terpsicore, Muse of Choral Dance  -- holding a lyre and plectrum

Thalia, Muse of Comedy -- holding a mask and shepherd's crook.

Seekers currently offers a number of tygs in a variety of shapes and sizes. (See last photo.)