Pocket flask
Unknown Artist
1800–1860
Medium
Blown pattern-molded glass
Dimensions
H. 6 11/16 in. (17 cm)
Classification
Pocket flask
Culture
American
Department
The American Wing
Museum
Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, NY
Credit
Gift of Henry G. Schiff, 1980
Accession Number
1980.502.60
Art Historical Context
This elegant pocket flask, crafted between 1800 and 1860, exemplifies early American glassmaking ingenuity. Standing at just 6 11/16 inches (17 cm) tall, it designed for portability—tucked into a gentleman's pocket or waistcoat for discreet sips of whiskey or other spirits during travel, social gatherings, or daily life. Produced anonymously by skilled artisans, likely in New England factories like those in Pittsburgh or New Jersey, it reflects the burgeoning American decorative arts scene post-Independence. The flask's medium, blown pattern-molded glass, was a hallmark technique of the era. ...