D2014-CMD. R.2014-1180 Tea service 2013-144,1-4

Sugar Dish and Lid

Dateca. 1810

Marked by Charles Alexander Burnett (1769 - 1849)

OriginAmerica, District of Columbia, Washington, Georgetown

MediumSilver

DimensionsOH: 8 1/4"; OW: 7 1/4"; OD: 4 1/8"

Credit LineMuseum Purchase, The Friends of Colonial Williamsburg Collections Fund

Object number2013-144,2A&B

DescriptionRaised oval urn-shaped body chased into 8 vertical panels on a stepped oval spreading foot; upper body chased onto wide and narrow horizontal bands, with convex shoulder and rim with applied horizontal bands. Two angular strap handles with applied sprig at midpoint. Domed oval lid with flat edges and cast urn finial.

Label TextCharles Alexander Burnett was the most prolific and important silversmith in the vicinity of the new nation’s seat of government, first working in Fredericksburg, Virginia (1788-1793), then Alexandria, Virginia (1793-ca. 1796), and finally Georgetown, DC (1796-ca. 1840). His clientele included members of Washington society, politicians and presidents. This teaset made in Alexandria is in Burnett’s earlier, more restrained neoclassical style; it has a family history of ownership by Mary Randolph of Virginia whose initials are engraved on three of the four pieces.

InscribedEngraved "MR" in sprigged script within a floral festooned cartouche for Mary Randolph of the Tabb family of Gloucester County, Virginia
MarkingsMarked in relief "C•A•BURNETT" in a rectangle, twice on inside of base
ProvenanceAccording to the vendor, the teaset has a family history of ownership by Mary Randolph of Amelia Courthouse and the Tabb family of Gloucester County, Virginia.