2017.47.4.a-.b
Sugar Bowl
Artist
John Read
Title
Sugar Bowl
Creation Date
1712
Century
early 18th century
Dimensions
4 1/2 in. (11.43 cm)
Object Type
silver
Creation Place
Europe, United Kingdom
Medium and Support
silver
Credit Line
Gift of Walter '57 and Katherine Gans
Copyright
This artwork may be under copyright. For further information, please consult the Museum’s
Copyright Terms and Conditions.
Accession Number
2017.47.4.a-.b
The West’s bourgeoning tea-drinking culture necessitated specialized forms to accommodate all the necessary products for this social ritual: porcelain cups and saucers, and silver spoons, teapots, tea caddies, and sugar bowls. While the wares on display concealed the goods produced for consumption, the labor involved in sourcing these goods should not be ignored. Plantations and involuntary or enslaved labor across Asia and the Caribbean was needed to extract, process, and supply vast quantities of tea and granulated sugar across Europe and the colonies.
Object Description
Per 12/5/2017 Appraisal: Of octagonal form on molded foot, the conforming domed cover with cast finial, engraved with a coat of arms and crest, marked under base.
