The Victorian Mustache Cup
Lip service.

By Camper English


Published on May 9, 2014

Today's mixologists, with their muttonchops and handlebars, have a historical influence: the Victorian male. These guys took their mustaches seriously, so much so that in mid-1800s England, a special teacup was designed for them. Its porcelain lip incorporated a bat-shaped guard that cradled the mustache, preventing it from getting wet or ruining one's Earl Grey with melted mustache wax. I first came across one at the Dead Rabbit Grocery and Grog, a Manhattan bar inspired by Gangs of New York–era Gotham. There, the vintage cups are filled with "daisies"—sweet-sour drinks that were popular in the 1870s. While they might strike some as dainty sippy cups, they make today's mustachioed men, as well as smooth-faced drinkers like me, feel stylishly well cared for.

Travel

The Victorian Mustache Cup

Lip service.

By Camper English


Published on May 9, 2014

Today's mixologists, with their muttonchops and handlebars, have a historical influence: the Victorian male. These guys took their mustaches seriously, so much so that in mid-1800s England, a special teacup was designed for them. Its porcelain lip incorporated a bat-shaped guard that cradled the mustache, preventing it from getting wet or ruining one's Earl Grey with melted mustache wax. I first came across one at the Dead Rabbit Grocery and Grog, a Manhattan bar inspired by Gangs of New York–era Gotham. There, the vintage cups are filled with "daisies"—sweet-sour drinks that were popular in the 1870s. While they might strike some as dainty sippy cups, they make today's mustachioed men, as well as smooth-faced drinkers like me, feel stylishly well cared for.

Continue to Next Story

Want more SAVEUR?

Get our favorite recipes, stories, and more delivered to your inbox.