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Jardiniere
Arthur Stone (American, born in England, 1847–1938)
1903
Object Place: Gardner, Massachusetts, United States
Medium/Technique
Copper with applied silver decoration
Dimensions
12.2 x 23 cm (4 13/16 x 9 1/16 in.)
Credit Line
Gift of Alma Bent
Accession Number1987.464
CollectionsAmericas
ClassificationsMetalwork
Despite its humble material, this copper jardinière is considered to be one of Stone’s finest works. The metal vessel reveals not only his technical virtuosity but also a sublime sensitivity to natural ornament and design. Stone entered this piece and three other works in the Louisiana Purchase Exposition in St. Louis in 1904 and received a silver medal. Although Gorham, Roycroft, and other manufacturers had included copper and mixed-metal wares in their lines since the 1880s, Stone’s copper work is rare. Most of his copper pieces were made for his own use. This bowl was displayed in the Stones’ front living room, placed atop an upright piano.
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 squat bulbous copper body was raised. It has naturalistic repousséd oak leaves and jewel-like inlaid silver acorns around its center, with a stepped flat foot and applied silver rim. The exterior has been lacquered.
Marks
“Stone” incised, with profile of chasing hammer struck incuse across St, on bottom.
InscriptionsNone.
ProvenanceArthur and Elizabeth Bent Stone estate to their companion Annie E. Priest (1872 – 1972); by descent to Alma Bent (about 1921 – 1992), Stone’s cousin, who donated it to the Museum.