Images(9)

Sugar Dish and Cover

Dateca. 1770

Maker Zachariah Brigden (1734 - 1787)

OriginAmerica, Massachusetts, Boston

MediumSilver

DimensionsOH (w/lid): 6 1/8"; OH (w/o lid):3 11/16": O Diam (body): 4 1/4"; O Diam (foot): 2 3/4": O Diam (lid): 4 1/4"

Credit LineMuseum Purchase, The Antique Collectors' Guild

Object number2017-335,A&B

DescriptionSugar dish and cover. Cast, stepped circular foot supports inverted pear-shaped body with narrow vertical rim. The double-domed lid with narrow reeded vertical flange topped by fixed (soldered) pinecone finial. Widest circumference of body chased with small asymmetrical cartouche flanked by narrow band of flowers, leaves and scrolls. Lid chased with similar band without cartouche, and with scrolls around base of finial.
Label TextThis handsome sugar dish bears both full name touchmark and one of the initial marks of Zachariah Brigden of Boston. The rococo flowers and scrolls ornamenting the piece were created by hammering the metal, a technique known as relief chasing or repoussé; this form of decoration is quite rare in American silver.
InscribedEngraved (crudely) in threaded block letter "F/I* L" on base engraving (mono or crest?) removed from cartouche on side of bowl.

Missing 3 dots between * and L.
MarkingsMarked in relief on base: "Z•Brigden" in semi-script in conforming reserve . [Kane A, p. 208]

Marked in relief inside lid: "Z?B" in block letters in rectangle. [Kane B, p 208]