Tankard 1715 - 1735

This silver tankard was made in Boston, sometime in the early 18th century, by Samuel Vernon, a silversmith who worked between 1683 and 1737. Objects like this tankard offer a glimpse into the intricate social hierarchies of early colonial America. Silver was a valuable commodity, and owning such a piece signaled wealth and status. The tankard's form—sturdy and practical—speaks to the values of the time, emphasizing utility alongside elegance. The silversmith's craft, as seen in the smooth surfaces and refined details, reflects the burgeoning artisan culture of Boston. It hints at the complex economic relationships between the colonies and Europe, where the raw materials may have originated. Examining probate records and merchants' papers from this period can reveal who owned similar items, what they were used for, and how they circulated within society. By placing this tankard within its original context, we can better understand the social dynamics of early America and the ways in which material culture shaped individual and collective identities.