Tankard
SilversmithMade by
John Potwine
(American, 1698 - 1792)
Date1725-1740, engraving added late nineteenth or early twentieth century
MediumRaised and cast silver
DimensionsPrimary Dimensions (height x width with handle x depth): 8 x 8 x 5 1/16in. (20.3 x 20.3 x 12.9cm)
ClassificationsMetalware
Credit LineGift of Philip H. Hammerslough
Object number1962.69.0
DescriptionSilver tankard with a stepped-domed lid that has a compressed ball finial at the top and a scrolled thumbpiece to one side. The lid is joined to the top of the handle with a hinge (repaired or replaced). The body of the tankard is cylindrical, with straight sides that taper from bottom to top. The body has molding at the rim and at the base. At one side of the tankard is an ear-shaped handle with an applied, disc-shaped terminal. A small, raised oval and circle are located at the top of the handle, near the hinge. Immediately below this are the engraved initials "T/ IM" (re-cut). The exterior surface of the handle is flat, and the interior surface is rounded. Opposite the handle is an elaborate engraved coat of arms (later addition). The engraving consists of a shield with a banner diagonally across the center; this is flanked by a rampant lion facing the shield. The shield and lions are over a banner with the Latin phrase "SANS DIEU RIEN". Above and to the right of the crest is an engraved two-headed wolf emerging from a crown, surrounded by a trailing vine of flowers and scrolled leaves. The lid and body of the tankard are raised; there is a centerpunch on the underside of the body. The finial, handle, and base are cast and soldered to the tankard. The interior and exterior of the body are scratched and abraded. The tankard has been apart.
Centerpunch: A centerpunch is a small, recessed point made as the first step of a technique called raising, used to make silver hollowware. The silversmith marks the center of a silver disc with a punch, or centerpunch. Working out from that center point, the silversmith beats the silver disc with a hammer to form the shape of the finished object.
Centerpunch: A centerpunch is a small, recessed point made as the first step of a technique called raising, used to make silver hollowware. The silversmith marks the center of a silver disc with a punch, or centerpunch. Working out from that center point, the silversmith beats the silver disc with a hammer to form the shape of the finished object.
Status
Not on view
