Beaker
ca. 1834–45
Medium
Silver
Dimensions
Overall: H. 3 9/16 in. (9 cm); 4 oz. 18 dwt. (151.8 g) Lip: Diam. 3 in. (7.6 cm) Base: Diam. 2 3/8 in. (6 cm)
Classification
Beaker
Culture
American
Department
The American Wing
Museum
Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, NY
Credit
Bequest of Alphonso T. Clearwater, 1933
Accession Number
33.120.114
Art Historical Context
This elegant silver beaker, crafted by York silversmith Edwardsey around 1834–45, the refined craftsmanship of early 19th-century American decorative arts Standing just 3 9/16 inches tall a graceful lip diameter of 3 and a sturdy base of 2 3/8 inches, it a substantial 4 oz. 18 dwt., reflecting the high quality of its handwrought silver construction. Kinsey, active in the bustling silversmith trade of antebellum America, produced functional yet luxurious objects like this one, which would have graced the tables of affluent households. Beakers such as this were essential for serving hot beverag...