Images(5)

Sugar Tongs

Dateca.1750-1760

Maker Joseph Richardson, Sr. (1711-1784)

OriginAmerica, Pennsylvania, Philadelphia

MediumSilver

DimensionsOverall: 4 11/16"; Width across finger loops: 1 3/4"

Credit LineBequest of Joseph H. and June S. Hennage

Object number2020-309

DescriptionSugar or tea tongs of the scissor type with round finger loops, scrolled arms, a disk-shaped joint, and concave shell grips.
Label TextThe sole purpose of this almost flawlessly designed device is to remove a broken lump of sugar from its designated vessel, transport it a few inches, and place it in one's cup of tea. While the earliest sugar tongs were miniature versions of the common fireplace tongs but in silver, this type incorporates a scissor-like hinge and may have been inspired by the scissor-type candle snuffer. These tongs were all the rage during the middle decades of the 18th century, and they were made by some of the most accomplished urban silversmiths in colonial America, like this example by Joseph Richardson, Sr.
InscribedEngraved "H • L" on the outside of one finger loop.
MarkingsMarked "IR" in relief within a rectangle inside each grip.
ProvenancePurchased from S. J. Shrubsole (New York City), May 21, 1990.