Grace Cup

A Grace Cup (or Loving Cup) is a silver bowl or tankard with two handles that was traditionally passed round the table after grace at all banquets in London. According to Brewer's Dictionary of Phrase and Fable, the Grace Cup is still seen at the Lord Mayor's feasts, at college, and occasionally in private banquets. Oxford's Oriel College possess Sanford and Heywood grace cups, dated 1654-55 and 1669-70 in its Buttery Plate collection. Nearby Balliol College also makes reference to the use of a Grace Cup which was discontinued in the early 20th century.