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Alexandria, Virginia. Slave Pen. (Price, Birch & Co. Dealers in Slaves) (U.S. Civil War) Color Changing Mug 11oz

Alexandria, Virginia. Slave Pen. (Price, Birch & Co. Dealers in Slaves) (U.S. Civil War) Color Changing Mug 11oz

100 in stock

Regular price $17.99 USD
Regular price Sale price $17.99 USD
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Alexandria, Virginia: A Design of Remembrance

The design of this coffee mug presents a stark visual representation of a dark chapter in American history: the slave pen of Price, Birch & Co. in Alexandria, Virginia, during the U.S. Civil War era. The artwork, through its color-changing properties, aims to evoke a sense of the hidden and revealed realities of this period.

The Pen Revealed

The primary image depicts a stylized rendering of a slave pen. The architectural details, though simplified, suggest the cramped and oppressive conditions these holding facilities were known for. The prominent display of "Price, Birch & Co. Dealers in Slaves" serves as a direct reference to the commercialized aspect of human bondage.

A Changing Landscape of Memory

The color-changing aspect of the mug adds a dynamic layer to the design. When hot liquid is poured in, the image subtly transforms, potentially revealing details or nuances that were previously obscured. This could symbolize the surfacing of historical truths, or the ways in which the past continues to impact the present.

A Symbol of Resilience and Reflection

This design serves as a powerful reminder of the human cost of slavery. The image, though static in appearance, speaks volumes about the historical context and the resilience of those who endured this brutal reality. It is a visual invitation to remember, reflect, and learn from the past.

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Color-changing ceramic mugs with a glossy finish, black exterior, and white interior. Available in one size: 11 oz (≈330 ml). Heat-reactive coating reveals your custom design when filled with hot liquid. BPA- and lead-free, with a comfortable C-handle.

This mug brings a playful twist to the daily coffee or tea ritual. At room temperature, it looks like a simple black mug with a glossy finish. But add a hot beverage, and your chosen design fades into view, showing vivid colors against the white interior.

The ceramic body is durable enough for repeated use, while the C-shaped handle balances comfort and grip. Printing uses sublimation techniques that fuse color into the heat-reactive surface for crisp results when the design appears.

  • Material: ceramic with glossy black exterior and white interior.
  • Size: one standard size, 11 oz (≈330 ml).
  • Finish: glossy glaze with heat-sensitive surface.
  • Printing: sublimation process produces crisp, vibrant colors.
  • Safety: BPA-free and lead-free, suitable for everyday drinks.
  • Effect: design is faintly visible when cold, fully revealed when hot.

Perfect as a novelty gift or a fun personal mug, the heat-reactive design makes coffee breaks more engaging. It works well for morning coffee, afternoon tea, or hot chocolate.

  1. Daily routine: fill with any hot beverage to reveal your chosen artwork.
  2. Gifting: the “magic” reveal makes it a memorable present for birthdays, holidays, or office exchanges.
  3. Office use: sparks conversation while still being practical for everyday drinks.

Note: for best results, avoid designs that rely heavily on deep black backgrounds, as they may blend with the mug’s surface when cold.

Unlike standard mugs, color-changing mugs require gentler care to preserve the heat-reactive coating. Hand-wash only — avoid the dishwasher and abrasive scrubbers, which can damage the finish and reduce the effect.

The mug is safe for short microwave use when heating liquids, but repeated high-heat cycles may shorten the lifespan of the coating. Always allow the mug to cool before washing.

Available in one classic size: 11 oz (approximately 330 ml). It’s large enough for most standard coffee makers and fits comfortably in most cabinets.

Size guide

All measurements are product dimensions in inches.

11 oz
Height (in) 3.78
Diameter (in) 3.23
Diameter w/ handle (in) 4.76

Note: measurements are approximate; slight variations may occur due to manufacturing tolerances.