Description

Painted on the asymmetric contours of this ceramic cup lies a narrative of resilience and social consciousness—a tribute to the profound impact of Frances Ellen Watkins Harper, a figure in Philadelphia’s rich tapestry of history.

Frances Ellen Watkins Harper, an exemplar of courage and advocacy, was drawn on the surface of this wheel-throw cup using an underglaze pencil directly on the greenware. In 1825, Harper was born free in Baltimore, Maryland, a slave state. Frances Ellen Watkins Harper first moved to Philadelphia after meeting William Still, in order to become active in the Underground Railroad. Harper defied the constraints of her circumstances to become a towering figure in the fight for equality. Through her prolific writings, she became a beacon of hope for Black people, challenging societal norms and advocating for the rights of all.

Etched in color upon the cup is Frances Harper’s home at 1006 Bainbridge Street, Philadelphia, built ca. 1870. Harper lived here through her old age until her death in 1911—a modest yet profound symbol of her enduring legacy.

Handwritten on the cup is a segment from Harper’s speech titled ‘We Are All Bound Up Together – May 1866’: “We are all bound up together in one great bundle of humanity, and society cannot trample on the weakest and feeblest of its members without receiving the curse in its own soul.” These words, imbued with a profound sense of empathy and moral imperative, resonate as a clarion call for collective action and social justice.

This small ceramic vessel is a conduit for reflection and dialogue—a tangible artifact that features documentation of Harper’s enduring legacy.

Through this humble creation, I seek to honor Frances Ellen Watkins Harper—a luminary whose legacy continues to inspire and challenge us to confront the inequities of our world. May this cup serve as a testament to her unwavering commitment to justice and equality and as a catalyst for meaningful dialogue and transformative change in our society.