Jug with cover

Art Historical Context

This elegant silver jug with cover, crafted by London silversmith John Chartier in 1711–12, exemplifies the refined metalwork traditions of early eighteenth-century Britain. Standing just over six inches tall, the piece combines polished silver with a practical wooden handle, a common design choice that protected users from the chill of the metal while adding tactile warmth. Created during the reign of Queen Anne, such vessels were prized in prosperous households for serving wine, ale, or other beverages at the table. The jug’s most distinctive feature is the engraved coat of arms, which identifies it as a personalized commission rather than a stock item. In an era when silver objects signaled social standing and family lineage, the inclusion of heraldry transformed the jug into both a functional object and a subtle declaration of identity. Its compact scale suggests it was intended for intimate dining settings rather than grand ceremonial use. Now part of the Metropolitan Museum’s European Sculpture and Decorative Arts collection, this work offers visitors a tangible connection to Georgian-era craftsmanship. The generous gift of Irwin Untermyer in 1968 ensures that Chartier’s artistry continues to illuminate the everyday luxury of London’s silver trade.