Images(11)

Domed Lid Tankard

Dateca.1761-1799

Maker Frederick Bassett (d. 1800)

OriginAmerica, Connecticut, Hartford and New York, New York City

MediumPewter

DimensionsHeight: 7”; Width: 7”; Diameter of foot: 5”

Credit LineGift of Scott and Debra Duncan

Object number2022-198

DescriptionTankard of tapering cylindrical form with an applied molded base, a molded lip, and a hollow scrolled handle with a "fishtail" terminal. An integral hinge atop the handle connects it to a stepped and domed lid, opened by a double-scrolled thumb piece. The bottom of the lid is embellished by a shaped flange.
Label TextA succession of Bassett family pewterers working in New York City spans almost the entirety of the 18th century. Their products, including many of the finest holloware pieces made here, have come to epitomize American pewter of the era. This tankard includes a flange on the lid's bottom, along with an even further projecting shaped front edge. Holdovers from the late 17th century, this decorative feature was popular in New York City through the 18th century.

Frederick Bassett is believed to have received his father John's pewter making tools at the age of twenty-one when his father passed away in 1761. Becoming a freeman of the city in 1769, Frederick moved his business to Hartford, Connecticut during the Revolution. Since he returned to his hometown after the war had ended and the British departed, it can be assumed he was loyal to the Patriot cause. He died in New York city in 1800, leaving no son to take over his business.
MarkingsInside bottom struck with "FB," with a star above and below, all within a roped border, in relief (Laughlin-468).
ProvenanceEx. Coll.; John Carl Thomas