Occupational shaving mugs were used extensively at the turn of the 20th century in barber shops throughout the country. A fitted shelf held spots for the personalized mugs of its patrons, and the more mugs on display, the higher the status, especially if important patrons of the town's mugs were visible. This mug is typical in that it has the person's name, in this case John M. Fahey, painted in rich gold. What's atypical and quite interesting is the hand-painted illustration of the man's occupation, which in this case is horse racing. The mug belonged to Louisville, Kentucky stable owner Fahey, and grandson John Fahey III still operates it. A creamy white mug with gold trim and a highly detailed illustration of a jockey, horse farm and horse racing, it is approximately 3.5" high and in EX+ condition.