Images(6)

Pair of Goblets

Dateca.1795

Maker Joseph Richardson Jr. (1752 - 1831)

OriginAmerica, Pennsylvania, Philadelphia

MediumSilver

DimensionsHeight: 5 9/16" Diameter: 3 3/4" Base: 2 11/16" square; Weight: 13 ozs. 4 dwts.

Credit LineBequest of Joseph H. and June S. Hennage

Object number2020-286,1&2

DescriptionPair of silver Goblets, each with a straight-sided square base topped by a circular foot. Their incurving necks, beaded at both ends, support plain, urn-shaped bodies.
Label TextAlmost identical to a neoclassical sugar urn, but without an ornamented rim and cover, drinking goblets became fashionable in the United States at the end of the 18th century. American examples from this period are rare, and this pair may be the sole to survive, and the only such made by Joseph Richardson, Jr. Four goblets are listed in the May, 31, 1790 inventory of the goods in the shop he shared with his brother and then-partner Nathaniel.
MarkingsUnderside of foot struck with "JR" in relief within a rectangle, in two opposite corners.
ProvenanceEx. coll. Dr. William Serri (Merchantville, NJ). Sold at Parke-Bernet Galleries (New York), October 28, 1969, lot 68. Purchased from S.J. Shrubsole (New York), on May 9, 1976.