Tankard 1760 - 1765

This is a silver tankard made by Benjamin Burt, a silversmith active in Boston during the 18th century. Crafted during a period of colonial expansion and transatlantic trade, Burt's tankard reflects the economic activities that shaped early American society. Silver objects like these were not merely functional; they symbolized wealth and status. Think about it: whose labor extracted the raw materials? Who was able to afford such luxury? The tankard becomes a silent witness to the complex social hierarchies and labor practices of the time. Consider the role of taverns and social gatherings in colonial life. This tankard might have been used in such settings, facilitating discussions that ranged from the mundane to revolutionary ideas, all the while obscuring the exploitation of enslaved people that fueled such gatherings. Burt's tankard invites us to consider the intricate connections between material culture, social identity, and the historical forces that shaped early America. It's a reminder that even the most elegant objects can carry complex histories and uncomfortable truths.