D2014-CMD. R.2014-1180 Tea service 2013-144,1-4

Images(2)

Cream Pot

Dateca. 1810

Marked by Charles Alexander Burnett (1769 - 1849)

OriginAmerica, District of Columbia, Washington, Georgetown

MediumSilver

DimensionsOH: 5 3/4"; OW: 5 1/2"; OD: 2 3/4"

Credit LineMuseum Purchase, The Friends of Colonial Williamsburg Collections Fund

Object number2013-144,3

DescriptionCream pot: Raised oval urn-shaped body chased into 8 vertical panels on a stepped oval spreading foot; upper body chased onto wide and narrow horizontal bands; high neck with flared protruding lip, and applied horizontal bands around the edge; back raises to meet handle with leaf and drop ornamentation on the inside. Angular strap handle with applied sprig at midpoint.

Label TextCharles Alexander Burnett was the most prolific and important silversmith in the vicinity of the new nation’s seat of government, first working in Fredericksburg, Virginia (1788-1793), then Alexandria, Virginia (1793-ca. 1796), and finally Georgetown, DC (1796-ca. 1840). His clientele included members of Washington society, politicians and presidents. This teaset made in Alexandria is in Burnett’s earlier, more restrained neoclassical style; it has a family history of ownership by Mary Randolph of Virginia whose initials are engraved on three of the four pieces.

InscribedEngraved with a vacant floral festooned cartouche on proper right side
MarkingsC•A•BURNETT in rectangle inside base, with eagle's head inside of foot
ProvenanceAccording to the vendor, the teaset has a family history of ownership by Mary Randolph of Amelia Courthouse and the Tabb family of Gloucester County, Virginia.