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This large earthenware dish (alternatively called a ‘platter’ or ‘plate’) was probably used for serving meat or poultry, which, as today, was often caved at the table. Such pottery would’ve been too costly for many working people; moreover, many could only occasionally afford to eat meat (if at all) – Christmas being one occasion, should funds allowed. During the 1800s, weekly savings schemes – such as ‘goose clubs’ – became popular, to ensure a good meal at least once a year.

It might have carried a roast goose, or even turkey (increasingly consumed at this time); or joint of beef: the celebratory meat-of-choice – long associated with the ‘Olde England’ of romantic imagination.

Perhaps it took pride of place in the centre of the Christmas dinner table in more comfortably-off homes. In small houses, such as those of better-off artisans, (semi-)formal dining may have taken place in the parlour. But homes of the ‘Middling-sorts’ (such as professionals, and in the countryside, prosperous farmers), by this time often incorporated a dining room.

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The next mystery objects display (Object 4) is here.