John McMullin Antique Silver Sauce Boat, Philadelphia, PA, c. 1810

This rare and large John McMullin sauce boat with eagle handle is a wonderful example of early American silver of the Federal period from Philadelphia. The hand-raised bulbous body is attached to an oval stepped pedestal base. Bands of gadrooning are applied around the edge of the foot and along the interior of the rim.

The handle is exceptional with its simple 'C'-curve which splits at the base to be secured to the rim and body. The patriotic symbol of an American eagle was used as inspiration for the boldly designed handle. The feathered texture and expressive face are striking.

This magnificent sauce boat is marked underneath 'I. McMullin' in a rectangular punch along with an eagle. It measures 8 inches long across the handle and spout by 4.5 inches wide by 6.5 inches high to the top of the handle. It weighs a hefty 14.75 troy ounces, has never been engraved and is in excellent antique condition.