Images(9)

Tankard

Dateca.1740

Maker John Burt (1692/93 - 1745/46)

OriginAmerica, Massachusetts, Boston

MediumSilver

DimensionsHeight: 7 1/16"; Width across body & handle: 6 1/4"; Diameter at mouth: 3 1/2"; Diameter at base: 4 1/2"

Credit LineBequest of Joseph H. and June S. Hennage

Object number2020-269

DescriptionTankard of tapering cylindrical form with a half-round mid-band, an applied molded base, and a hollow scrolled handle ending in a convex ovoid disc. A pendant drop motif atop the handle extends from the integral hinge which connects it to a stepped and domed lid. The lid is capped by a baluster finial and is opened by a double-scroll thumb piece. Engraved between the mouth and mid-band are the arms of the Porter family.
Label TextAnyone who has ever fished an unwanted insect out of their beer can attest to the usefulness of a covered drinking vessel. To an 18th century person with the financial means, a silver tankard was the perfect solution, one which also served as a stylish status symbol. Smaller than many others, this example was made by John Burt of Boston for a member of the Porter family, whose crest is engraved on the front. Used but not abused, this tankard exhibits all the charm one would hope to see in a piece of colonial American silver. This includes mottled fire scale, wear to the engraving, rounded edges, and the countless miniscule dings & dents acquired while dispensing refreshing beverages over numerous centuries.

The estate inventory of Capt. Moses Porter (b.1722) of Hadley, Massachusetts lists a silver tankard worth £8. Porter was killed during the early part of French & Indian War at the Battle of Lake George on September 8, 1755. It is possible his cherished tankard is this one.
MarkingsBody struck with "JOHN / BURT" in relief within an oval, to either side of the upper handle attachment (Kane mark D).
ProvenanceEx. coll; Israel Sack (American Antiques from the Israel Sack Collection, Vol. IV, p.932). Purchased from Freeman's in April, 1972.