In 1861, Mary Todd Lincoln ordered an elaborate porcelain dinnerware set for the White House from the French firm Haviland and Company, placing the order through New York's Haughwout and Company. This set, known for its rich purple-red color, was often referred to as the Solefino service. It remained in use beyond the Lincoln presidency, with additional pieces ordered during the administrations of Andrew Johnson, Ulysses S. Grant, and Chester Arthur. Notably, during Grant’s presidency, a reorder was placed in 1873 for 275 replacement pieces, including 72 cups and saucers, to replace the Johnson-era "Solferino" set. Manufactured by Haviland, the porcelain was imported and decorated by J. W. Boteler and Brother of Washington, D.C., and delivered on December 10, 1873. The complete service, which cost $1,207.21, included plates in three sizes, compote dishes, and cups and saucers. The pieces can be identified by the inscription "Fabriqué par Haviland & Co. / Pour / J. W. Boteler & Bro. / Washington" stamped on the back. By the end of Grant’s first term, however, there were not enough pieces left to set a full dinner for eight or nine people. This soup bowl is from Grant's presidency.