Covered Communion Flagon with Spout c. 1787

Stephen Maxwell, a pewter artist born in 1781 and who died in 1784, created this covered communion flagon with spout. Dated 1791, this flagon was made for religious rituals and features a hinged lid and a spout for pouring. With its simple form, smooth surface and engraved date, the flagon highlights the craftsmanship of pewter work, a popular material for religious objects in the 18th century. The Art Institute of Chicago houses this artifact.