When we think of a cup of coffee, it's often the mug that comes to mind. Wide, practical, and reassuring, it's a staple in kitchens worldwide. But there's another, more unique cup, long forgotten and now rediscovered: the mazagran. Heir to a rich history, it charms with its slender silhouette and timeless appeal.
The mug: a universal object
The mug originated in the English-speaking world, where coffee is consumed in large quantities. Its wide shape, generous handle, and thickness make it a practical companion, found in offices as well as homes.
- Versatility: it can accommodate coffee, tea, hot chocolate.
- Comfort: it is designed to be easy to grip and to keep you warm for a long time.
- Culture: In the United States, the mug is an emblem of everyday life, associated with simple conviviality.
The mazagran: a cup apart
Mazagran originated in the 19th century, inspired by an Algerian cold coffee drink. Created in France, the cup that bore its name became a staple of family meals, especially on Sundays.
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Shape: slender, freestanding, without a handle.
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Use: ideal for a long or iced coffee, but also to enhance a simple drink.
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Image: a symbol of transmission, it was often taken out of the buffet for shared meals.
Mug or Mazagran: two philosophies of coffee
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The gesture: picking up a mug is familiar; taking a mazagran changes the relationship to the cup.
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Aesthetics: the mug is utilitarian, the mazagran attracts the eye.
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The experience: the mug accompanies daily life, the mazagran transforms the break into a ritual.
When to choose one or the other?
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The mug → perfect for comfort, large drinks, quick uses.
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The mazagran → ideal as a gift, for taking a break, for dressing up a table.
The artisanal alternative
At Atelier Maison Quatre, we believe that the mazagran is more than just a cup: it's a piece of design and a keepsake. Made from handcrafted stoneware in Portugal, it's designed to last and accompany your coffee moments.
