Tankard c. 1770

This tankard was crafted in Boston by Samuel Minott, a silversmith active in the late 18th century. Its creation speaks volumes about the social fabric of the time. In colonial America, objects like this tankard weren't just functional; they were symbols of status and taste. Silver was a precious material, and owning a piece like this signaled wealth and refinement. Minott, as a craftsman, occupied a specific social position, catering to the elite. Boston, a bustling port city, was a hub of trade and craftsmanship. The tankard reflects this economic vibrancy and the aspirations of its patrons. The design is traditional, rooted in European styles, showing the colonies' cultural ties to the old world. As historians, we can look to period documents like probate inventories, merchant ledgers, and newspapers to understand the economic and social context of objects like this. Through that research, we can appreciate the meaning of such pieces and how they reflect the values of their time.