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A most precious product, very necessary for the use and health of mankind” – William of Tyre, 12th century

Hester Bateman (British, 1708 – 1794); “Sugar Basket,” 1782; Sterling silver and glass liner; Gift of Frank A. Rizza, M.D. and family, 2012.15.40.a-b

Explore the sweet culinary habits of Savannahians in this fun exhibition dedicated to the consumption of sugar in the port city. Using furnishings and portraits from Telfair Museums’ permanent collection, this unique display gives visitors a glimpse into humans’ connection to sugar and its complicated history. Porcelain and silver were shipped from Europe and beyond into the Port of Savannah, providing the elite of this city with purchasing options far surpassing those of any inland towns of the 19th century.

Featuring practical items such as tables, chairs, and tongs, and elaborate decorative pieces, the show highlights everyday objects once used here in Savannah for the enjoyment of baked confectionaries, syrupy fruit compotes, and sweetened drinks. Tables are set, complete with linen, and “populated” by the people who inhabit the portraits hung within the gallery.

Forget about your diet for now! Visit this exhibition and enjoy the beautiful silver, porcelain, period furnishings, and portraits on display.

This exhibition is organized by Telfair Museums and curated by Cyndi Sommers, Assistant Curator of Decorative Arts.”

Related to this exhibition

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Event

Director’s Circle Preview: Sugar

July 28, 2021 at 5:30pm Jepson Center
Join us for a “sweet” celebration of decorative arts!  We are excited to return to an in-person cocktails and light hors d’oeuvres in the Jepson Center’s Eckburg Atrium, followed at 6:30pm by a presentation from Assistant Curator of Decorative Arts, Cyndi Sommers in the Neises Auditorium. From 7:15-8pm, Director’s Circle members are invited to preview Sugar in the Lewis Gallery. Please RSVP to Calli Laundré by Friday, July 23 at 912.790.8807 or laundrec@telfair.org.
Event

Director’s Circle Preview: Sugar

July 28, 2021 at 5:30pm Jepson Center
Join us for a “sweet” celebration of decorative arts!  We are excited to return to an in-person cocktails and light hors d’oeuvres in the Jepson Center’s Eckburg Atrium, followed at 6:30pm by a presentation from Assistant Curator of Decorative Arts, Cyndi Sommers in the Neises Auditorium. From 7:15-8pm, Director’s Circle members are invited to preview Sugar in the Lewis Gallery. Please RSVP to Calli Laundré by Friday, July 23 at 912.790.8807 or laundrec@telfair.org.