Porringer 1795 - 1816

This is a porringer made by Samuel Danforth around the turn of the 19th century. It's crafted from pewter, a metal alloy primarily composed of tin, and given its low melting point, it's easily cast. The material properties of pewter lend themselves well to domestic objects like this, offering a balance of durability and affordability. Notice its soft, matte surface, the result of being cast in a mold and then likely finished by hand with tools, which is evidence of the handcrafting tradition in early American metalworking. The handle is a separate piece, intricately shaped, revealing a level of skill and artistry. Porringers like this weren’t just functional items, they were markers of status and taste in early American households. Considering the labor involved in mining, smelting, and working with pewter, owning such an object signified a certain level of economic comfort. It’s a reminder that everyday objects can embody a wealth of cultural information, reflecting a time when the boundaries between art, craft, and design were more fluid than they are today.