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Cann
Joseph Edwards, Jr. (American, 1737–1783)
about 1760–80
Object Place: Boston, Massachusetts
Medium/Technique
Silver
Dimensions
12.3 x 13.3 x 8 cm (4 13/16 x 5 1/4 x 3 1/8 in.)
Credit Line
Gift of Mrs. Samuel Nickerson in memory of Samuel Mayo Nickerson
Accession Number1977.769
NOT ON VIEW
CollectionsAmericas
ClassificationsSilver hollowware
An inch smaller but slightly heavier than a cann Edwards made about 1765 for Joshua and Hannah (Storer) Green, this example shares the same type of cast foot.1 The edge of this foot is sharply delineated and may indicate an earlier manufacture date. Its crisply detailed handle is just slightly smaller in height and width, a subtle difference that suits the slender girth of this cann made for an unknown patron.
This text has been adapted from "Silver of the Americas, 1600-2000," edited by Jeannine Falino and Gerald W.R. Ward, published in 2008 by the MFA. Complete references can be found in that publication.
This text has been adapted from "Silver of the Americas, 1600-2000," edited by Jeannine Falino and Gerald W.R. Ward, published in 2008 by the MFA. Complete references can be found in that publication.
DescriptionThe raised tulip-shaped vessel has a prominent applied, molded rim. A cast, splayed, molded foot with applied foot ring is soldered to the base. A double-scrolled cast handle has an acanthus thumbgrip and tendril at its terminus; a circular air vent appears below the thumbgrip. A separately cast elliptical disk and socket receive the upper handle; a repaired circular disk meets the lower join to the vessel. A triangular repair to the foot, below the handle, may have occurred during fabrication.
Marks
"IEdwards" touchmark within a rectangle is stamped on base above center point.
InscriptionsEngraved "M / T * A" on bottom of cann below center point. Modern inventory number "191" is engraved twice and each time, circled; and "316" is underlined.
ProvenanceEarly history unknown.