Tumbler cup 1708 - 1709

This tumbler cup was made by Joseph Ward, a silversmith active in Philadelphia during the mid-18th century. At the time, artisans like Ward occupied a vital role in colonial society, crafting objects that signified status and wealth. Silverware, often adorned with family crests, embodied personal and collective identity. Note the engraved heraldic shield, a symbol of lineage and social standing. These objects weren't merely functional; they were potent markers of class and belonging in a society grappling with questions of power and heritage. The tumbler offers a glimpse into the lives of those who commissioned and used such items, while also reminding us of the labor and artistry involved in their creation. It serves as a reminder of the complex relationships between art, identity, and social hierarchy that shaped early America.