a squirrel mug and a beautiful start

By Daderot (Own work) [Public domain or CC0], via Wikimedia Commons

This English earthenware mug dating from circa 1830-1860 is stout as it needs to be for a child's use.  At the same time, the lyrical illustration it bears of a feasting squirrel makes it appealing (I'd certainly like to own it).  Not only would the child using this have an example of well-executed drawing, but perhaps they also noted the squirrel too is gaining nourishment. What better encouragement for a young one?  I can hear it now: The squirrel eats breakfast, and so must you.
If you're interested, here's the website for The Potteries Museum, where you can learn more about Staffordshire wares like this one.