Porringer

A porringer is a shallow bowl, between 4 and 6 inches (100–150 mm) in diameter, and 1+1⁄2 to 3 inches (38–76 mm) deep; the form originated in the medieval period in Europe and was made in wood, ceramic, pewter, cast iron and silver.

The precise purpose of porringers, or écuelles, as they are known in France, is in dispute; but it is thought that they were used to hold broth or gruel.

Porringers of cast iron being enameled, tinned or plain were made in the beginning of 1820s to early 1900s in England by A. Kenrick, W. Bullock & T. Clark for export and made in America by J. Savery and numerous stove and hollow ware foundries.

A second, modern usage, for the term porringer is a double saucepan similar to a bain-marie used for cooking porridge.

Some collectors or materials historians also call what resembles the pewter porringer a "bleeding cup".