Object number
53/273
Collection
Description
This muller is of the type known as a 'boot', and is of unknown origin. It was used for warming drinks on a hearth - this sort of muller was suitable for use on a down-hearth, where the foot-like part was thrust into the fire.
Physical description
1 muller: brass; cylindrical bowl with handle
Label Text
Drink muller. Dating to the late 18th or early 19th century, this brass 'muller' would have been used to warm drinks over a hearth. For obvious reasons it was known as a 'boot'. The 'toe' part would have been placed in the fire to warm the muller. It is during this process that spices may have been added to complement the flavour of the drink. Cinnamon, cloves and nutmeg were popular additions to ale, wine or cider. The mulling process is thought to derive from the Romans, who would heat their wine as a defence against winter chills.
Archival history
MERL 'Catalogue index' card – ‘… // DATE ACQUIRED: // GROUP: // NEGATIVE: // PERIOD: // PLACE OF ORIGIN: // NUMBER: // DESCRIPTION: …‘ The base of the muller is made from one piece of metal, and its shape is similar to that of the sole of a pointed shoe. Its sides however are straight and it is quite flat. The handle is fastened on with 3 small copper bolts which clamp a rounded triangular plate over the splayed out end of the handle. // Marks of hammering are quite distinct, especially on the handle and cylindrical part of the vessel... //
Production date
1775-01-01 - 1799-12-31 1800-01-01 - 1824-12-31
Production period
Late-eighteenth century, Early-nineteenth century
Object name
Material
Associated subject
