The Age of Enlightenment was also an age of imbibing—consuming alcoholic beverages, often in excess, was an important aspect of the era’s social life. While most such indulgence took place at home, drinking clubs proliferated, particularly in England. Libations ranged from wine and champagne, both served very cold, to beer and, increasingly, an exotic drink known as punch. This installation, drawn from the Museum’s permanent collection, brings together objects employed in the service and consumption of alcoholic beverages.

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