Tankard 1764 - 1798

This tankard was made by William Will in the 18th century, formed from polished pewter. Pewter, an alloy of tin with small amounts of other metals, was a common material for domestic objects in the 1700s. This tankard shows the appeal of the metal: its soft sheen, substantial weight, and ability to take a crisp profile. Pewter was relatively affordable, but could still evoke the luxury of silver. Consider the labor involved. The tankard would have been cast, likely in multiple parts, then carefully finished on a lathe to create its smooth, reflective surface. Will's expertise is evident in the precisely fitted lid and the elegantly curved handle. Such an object speaks to the rise of consumer culture, when even ordinary people could aspire to own well-made, attractive goods. Appreciating the material and the maker’s skill helps us understand the tankard not just as a drinking vessel, but as a reflection of its time.