The Forgotten History of Porringers: Uncovering the Story Behind Medieval and Renaissance Tableware

A porringer is a type of dish or bowl that was commonly used in the past, particularly in Europe during the medieval and Renaissance periods. It was typically made of earthenware or pewter and had a deep, round body with a narrow mouth and short legs or a foot ring.

Porringers were used for serving soups, stews, and other liquid foods, as well as for eating porridge, hence their name. They were often decorated with intricate designs and patterns, and some examples have survived to the present day in museums and private collections.

Over time, the use of porringers declined as other types of dishes and tableware became more popular, but they remain an interesting piece of culinary history and a reminder of the evolution of table manners and dining practices.