Mugs
PewtererMug .1 made by
Edward Danforth
(American, 1765 - 1830)
PewtererMug .2 made by
Unknown
RetailerMug .2 sold by
Samuel Danforth
(American, 1774 - 1816)
Original OwnerOriginally owned by
Seven Copper Club
(American, founded 1784)
ConservatorConserved by
Wayne A. Hilt and Phyllis Hilt
(American)
Dateabout 1795-1800
MediumCast pewter
DimensionsPrimary Dimensions (height x width including handle x depth at base of mug .1): 6 x 7 x 4 3/4in. (15.2 x 17.8 x 12.1cm)
Primary Dimensions (height x width including handle x depth at base of mug .2): 5 15/16 x 7 x 5in. (15.1 x 17.8 x 12.7cm)
ClassificationsMetalware
Credit LineGift of I. W. Stuart
Object number1950.380.0.1-.2
DescriptionPair of cast pewter mugs, each with a cylindrical body with straight, tapered sides. Each mug has a solid, cast handle that is soldered onto the body; the S-curve handle is flat on the top, rounded on the inside, and has a rounded terminal at the bottom. Each mug has two plain, narrow bands: one at the rim and another three-quarters down the body. Each mug has tapered molding around the base and has a flat bottom. Both mugs have overall light scratches and nicks. Both have been polished and had larger dents removed.
Mug .1: The interior and underside have visible skimming marks and chatter marks. The terminal has visible finishing marks. The outermost point of the handle has one wide dent.
Mug .2: The outermost point of the handle has several small dents.
Mug .1: The interior and underside have visible skimming marks and chatter marks. The terminal has visible finishing marks. The outermost point of the handle has one wide dent.
Mug .2: The outermost point of the handle has several small dents.
Label TextPewter was frequently used for everyday dining items in 18th century Connecticut. This example, made by Edward Danforth, was used in Moses Butler's Hartford tavern in the 1790s.
NotesHistorical Note: The Seven Copper Club, founded in 1784, was a men's club that met in Moses Butler's Tavern at the corner of Main and Elm Street in Hartford, Connecticut. The club got its name because each member would only spend seven coppers on a half a mug of flip each time they met. It is said that Moses Butler never allowed the men to purchase more than that, or to remain in the tavern past nine o'clock. According to a 1926 address to the Hartford Medical Society, the Seven Copper Club members were doctors and physicians. (Hudson and Hunt 12/13/2005)Status
On view
