Images(7)

Cream Boat

Dateca. 1740-1760

Maker William Cripps (working ca. 1743 - 1766)

OriginEngland, London

MediumSilver

DimensionsOverall length; 5 3/4"; Height to top of handle: 3"

Credit LineBequest of Joseph H. and June S. Hennage

Object number2020-305

DescriptionSilver cream boat with three scrolled feet topped by stylized masks, supporting an oval body with a high-sided pouring lip and a scroll-shaped rim. Its double-scrolled, freestanding handle has an acanthus leaf grip. Left side of body engraved with a gryphon's head crest.
Label TextSmaller versions of the sauceboat were sometimes made to serve cream or milk at tea time. Today, the silver cream boat is a scarce form, and only four other examples are in Colonial Williamsburg's collection, all of which are English or Scottish.
InscribedUnderside of body scratched "5 -5."
MarkingsStruck three times with "W.C" in relief within a shaped cartouche (Grimwade 3056). Only one of the impressions is fully legible.
ProvenancePurchased at auction from Adam A. Weschler & Son, Inc. (Washington, D.C.), May 24, 1970, lot 871.