Images(5)

Porringer

Dateca. 1760-1774

Maker Daniel Henchman (1730 - 1775)

OriginAmerica, Massachusetts, Boston

MediumSilver

DimensionsOverall: 8 1/8”; Diameter of bowl: 5 5/8"; Height to top of bowl: 2 3/16"

Credit LineBequest of Joseph H. and June S. Hennage

Object number2020-290

DescriptionPorringer with a raised bowl featuring a slightly everted rim, curved sides, and a stepped and domed bottom. Cast keyhole handle soldered at a slightly upward angle to the bowl at the rim.
Label TextPopular as a multi-purpose vessel for food and drink alike, porringers were first made in America during the middle of the 17th century. While the form fell out of favor in most of the colonies by the middle of the 18th century, they were still being made in New England well into the 19th century.

Daniel Henchman, the maker of this porringer, completed his apprentice under Jacob Hurd sometime in the mid-1750s. Further strengthening his ties to the Hurd dynasty of silversmiths, Daniel married Elizabeth, the daughter of his former Master, in 1753. Though he died at the age of 45, he left behind a considerable body of work, including just a few porringers.
InscribedTop of handle engraved "I S to S S" in three lines. Front of the bowl engraved "L.W.R. to L.A.R." in a later sprigged script.
MarkingsBottom of handle struck with "Henchman" in relief within a rectangle (Kane mark A).