Basin 1716 - 1726

"Basin" is a large, circular, silver dish crafted by Samuel Margas Jr., a prominent silversmith who lived a short but prolific life from 1714 to 1733. This highly ornamented piece, dating back to 1716-1726, features intricate repoussé and chased decoration around the rim, and a central boss with a stylized, heraldic design. It is a prime example of the exquisite craftsmanship in silverwork during the early 18th century, and is a testament to the skill and artistry of Samuel Margas Jr. The basin, now residing in the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York City, is a symbol of the rich tradition of silversmithing in the colonial era.