Images(3)

Mug

Date1792-1800

Attributed to Broadhead, Gurney, Sporle & Company (Sheffield, England, 1792 - 1800)

OriginEngland, Sheffield

MediumPewter (Britannia metal)

DimensionsOH: 4 7/8"; H(rim): 4 9/16"; Diam(rim): 3 5/8"; Diam.(base): 3 7/8"

Credit LineMuseum Purchase

Object number2003-83

DescriptionStraight-sided mug formed of sheet Britannia metal seamed on side of body to right of handle; applied stepped base band; rim of body with single reed at edge. C-shaped cast handle with slight thumb grip and pointed oval terminal; affixed to body with "V" shaped upper juncture and oval lower juncture.

Engraved on body opposite handle with sprays of wheat flanking a birght-cut neoclassical shield. Also engraved around base and rim moldings and handle junctures with very fine wrigglework lines.
Label TextThis is the first Britannia metal mug with a body formed of rolled sheet pewter to enter the Colonial Williamsburg collection. Although unmarked, it is engraved opposite the handle with a distinctive design of sprays of wheat flanking a neoclassical shield. The pattern of engraving is associated with surviving pieces and engraved trade catalog illustrations of Broadhead, Gurney, Sporle & Company, a previously unrepresented prominent Sheffield pewter and Britannia manufacturer.
ProvenanceVendor: David S. Moulson