The Oscar Mug
The Oscar Mug
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A familiar presence at the table
Hand-thrown stoneware mug featuring a hand-carved black-and-white Bichon Frisé motif, set against a soft blush pink glaze split.
Approx. 300ml
Made in very small batches
Meet Oscar – a steady, if slightly contrary, companion
This mug features a carved portrait of Oscar — a dog known for his stubborn charm, expressive eyes, and occasional flair for the dramatic. His gaze here is calm, mildly unimpressed, and entirely present. The pink glaze band wraps low around the form, offering a sense of warmth and quiet grounding.
Thrown on the wheel and finished by hand in my studio in Virginia, Co. Cavan, the Oscar Mug is made to be used daily — to sit easily in the hand and slowly become part of the routine.
Studio Note
Oscar was our family dog — a Bichon with a strong sense of self. He was fussy, vocal, occasionally aloof, but always near. At one stage he was nicknamed, Rikky Martin, - less for his rhythm...more for...other reasons. He was, in his way, full of character — and always watching.
There’s a trace of him in this piece: the lift of the brow, the weight in the stare, the comfort of familiarity. It's not a portrait in the strictest sense — more a gesture. A small reminder of how much presence a creature can carry, even after they’re gone.
A Few Things to Hold in Mind
Care & Handling
These mugs are dishwasher safe, though hand washing is always gentler on handmade ceramics.
Microwave use is not recommended.
Each piece is glazed with a food-safe, non-toxic clear gloss.
To preserve the integrity of the clay and glaze, avoid sudden temperature changes (e.g. from fridge to boiling water). A little care goes a long way.
Form & Finish
Thrown in white stoneware
Carved and painted motif in clean black linework
60/40 background split: glaze band below, exposed stoneware above
Holds approx. 300ml
Approx. 10cm tall x 10cm wide
Each piece is unique — variations in brushwork, form, and glaze are to be expected
Studio Context
Each piece is made slowly, by hand, in small batches from a quiet studio in Virginia, Co. Cavan.
The aesthetic — Handcrafted Modern Play — leans on clean form and gentle character: calm expressions, earthy tones, and lines that feel alive rather than perfect.
Some batches feature several designs. Others, just one. It depends on the clay, the day, and whatever’s hanging around in my head.
Delivery & Returns
Orders ship within 3–5 working days
An Post tracked shipping within Ireland (€8 flat rate)
International delivery available (€11–26, based on location)
Free studio pickup available in Virginia, Co. Cavan
Returns are accepted for credit, refund, or exchange — provided the item is unused and safely packed. Just get in touch.
A Note from Me
Not for resale — emotionally or otherwise.
If you’re flipping dogs for profit, they’ll know. And they’ll judge you.
A portion of profits is donated to local animal shelters in Cavan and surrounding areas.
Adopt Don't Shop.