Tankard 1706 - 1708

This tankard was made from silver by David King, a silversmith active in Boston in the early 18th century. The tankard is a useful object, used for drinking beer, and also an eloquent expression of colonial aspirations to gentility and status. Silver objects like this were produced in the colonies for a wealthy merchant class emulating English styles. The tankard’s relative simplicity indicates that it was made early in King’s career before he developed a more ornate style. Silversmiths occupied a prominent place in the social and economic structure of early Boston. They were craftsmen, entrepreneurs, and often leaders in the community. Surviving account books, bills, and advertisements paint a rich picture of the lives of these artisans. The tankard is more than just a drinking vessel, it's a testament to the complex social fabric of early America.