Hand Pressed Glass Cup Plate "Penna. Dutch"

This Historical Reproduction Cup Plate features the inscription "Penna. Dutch Land of the Hex" on its rim, and a classic Pennsylvania Dutch hex emblem of two doves facing each other in the center with "Wilkum" (Welcome) inscribed below. The two doves, also known as "Distelfink" or "double Distelfink," symbolize good luck and love, especially on wedding plates. 

Measuring 3.5" in diameter, this cup plate was commissioned from Pairpoint Glass by Charlotte Heck of Lititz PA in 1980. It was made by hand using a glass press and hand carved pressing mold, following the same process used for cup plate production in the 19th century.

1825 - 2025 Bicentennial Celebration: in 2025 the Sandwich Historical Society is celebrating 200 years of glass making in Sandwich, by offering for sale a collection of vintage reproduction cup plates. Proceeds from cup plate sales go directly to fund the special events and services offered as part of our 2025 bi-centennial celebration. We thank you for your support of the Sandwich Historical Society and its Glass Museum! 

Glassmaking in Sandwich, MA, began in 1825 with the establishment of the Sandwich Glass Manufactory by Deming Jarves, a Boston entrepreneur. The factory was reincorporated in 1826 as the Boston & Sandwich Glass Company, and manufactured glassware until 1887.  

Cup Plates were commonly used in the early 19th century. Teacups at the time had no handle, so it was the custom to pour hot tea into a saucer for cooling and drink from the saucer. The cup was set aside on a decorative cup plate like this one to prevent soiling the table linens or marring the tabletop.