Dish cross
Dateca. 1779
Artist/Maker
Richard Humphreys
1750 - 1832
MediumSilver
DimensionsH: 3 5/8"; W: 12 3/4"
Credit LineMuseum Purchase
Object number1954-140,A&B
DescriptionSilver dish cross with an ovoid spirit lamp with swivel ring from which radiate 4 square arms with stars riveted on the ends. On each arm, slipper-shaped dish rest supported by 2 C-scrolls on adjustable socket in turn supported by C-scrolls on oval foot.Label TextThe Quaker silversmith Richard Humphreys was born in Tortola, West Indies, and apprenticed with Bancroft Woodcock in Wilmington, Delaware. By 1772, he was advertising in Philadelphia at the Sign of the Coffeepot, a silversmithing shop formerly operated by Philip Syng, Jr. During his career, Humphreys produced a wide array of forms, including such rare items as this dish cross. The central spirit lamp kept food warm, while pivoting central rings and sliding supports accommodated both round and oval dishes of various sizes. The Pennsylvania Evening Post featured an advertisement on September 2, 1779, in which Humphreys offered for sale a “TABLE CROSS, with a lamp in it.”Mark(s)"R·H" stamped in relief within an oval on base of lamp and on the four cast C-scrolls for the feet.ProvenanceVendor: Arthur J. Sussel, Philadelphia
