Domed Lid Tankard

Date1752-1774

Maker John Will I

MediumPewter

DimensionsOH: 7 1/8"; Diam (base): 4 15/16"

Credit LineMuseum Purchase

Object number1959-1

DescriptionTankard: Round-topped double-domed cover with broad encircling flange at rim with crenate lip opposite handle; paired incised lines around center of tip, base of upper dome, and rim of flange; folded thumb piece a continuation of upper hinge plate soldered to cover; flat hinge with a series of horizontal moldings on face of lower hinge plate with slightly raised panel with curved lower edge and small circular pendent drop from center below repeating design of raised panel on face of thumb piece; conventional S-scroll handle of D-shaped section with bud terminal; tall taper cylindrical body with double molding at rim and tall molded band at base.Label TextJohn Will I both trained and worked as a pewterer in his native Germany before emigrating with his family to New York City in 1750. Though fifty-six years old in 1750, he had a very creative and productive career in New York City that lasted into the early 1770s. His influence was extended through the work of his three remarkable sons, Henry, Philip, and especially William.

His work shows obvious adjustment not only to dominant English taste, but also to local preference. New York tankards in silver and pewter often tend to retain early features, such as the projecting cover flange with bold denticulations opposite the handle, details that one expects to see on early flat-lidded tankards. There is often a generosity to the proportions of New York tankards as well.
Inscription(s)NoneMark(s)Touch mark "IW" with a mullet above and below within a beaded circle with a scalloped edge on interior center-bottom of base (Laughlin 481).ProvenanceVendor: Thomas D. & Constance R. Williams, Litchfield, Connecticut.