Pitcher 1835 - 1863

This pitcher was made by Freeman Porter, sometime in the mid-19th century, likely in Taunton, Massachusetts. It’s fashioned from Britannia metal, an alloy of tin, antimony, and copper. Britannia ware was prized for its silvery appearance. It was often formed by hammering sheets of metal into shape, or by casting. This example was created using a technique called spinning, where a disc of metal is rotated at high speed and then gradually formed over a wooden or metal model. The handle was probably cast. The surface would then be polished to a high shine. This kind of ware was very popular in the 1800s, as it provided a relatively inexpensive substitute for silver. It’s a great example of how industrial production could meet the demand for affordable household goods. It’s a reminder that even everyday objects can reflect important social and economic shifts. The beauty of this pitcher lies not only in its form, but also in the story it tells about industry, labor, and consumption.