Mug 1718 - 1785

This pewter mug, crafted by Francis Bassett I between 1718 and 1785, is a fine example of American colonial craftsmanship. The simple, functional form, with a slightly flared base and a gently curved handle, embodies the practical aesthetic of the era. The mug’s smooth surface and subtle details, like the raised band around the body, add to its understated elegance. This object, now housed in the Metropolitan Museum of Art, offers a glimpse into the everyday lives of colonial Americans.