Beaker

Art Historical Context

Crafted around 1715 by New York silversmith Moody Russell, this elegant silver beaker exemplifies the finest early American craftsmanship during the Queen Anne period. Standing just under 5 inches tall with a flared lip and sturdy base, it weighs a substantial 6 ounces, reflecting the durability and luxury of silver tableware in colonial households. Russell, active in Manhattan's bustling silversmith trade, produced such vessels for affluent patrons, blending English influences with emerging American styles. In 18th-century America, beakers like this were essential for serving punch, ale, or toddy in taverns and homes, symbolizing hospitality and social status. Silver objects were rare and prized, often passed down through generations as family heirlooms. The medium's gleam and heft underscored the owner's wealth, as importing raw silver or finished goods from England was costly, making local artisans like Russell vital to colonial elites. Today, this beaker graces The American Wing at The Metropolitan Museum of Art, thanks to the 1933 bequest of Alphonso T. Clearwater. It offers a tangible glimpse into everyday luxury of the early 1700s, highlighting how American silversmiths laid the foundation for a distinct national decorative arts tradition.