Lincoln & Reed Antique Coin Silver Octagonal Hot Milk Pitcher, Boston, c. 1848

This is an early and stunning pot for hot milk or syrup. It has a tapered, octagonal body which is exceedingly difficult for a silversmith to execute due to the flat surfaces with creases. The fitted hinged cover is also impressive with its dome and applied finial.

Exceptional engraving of foliate design decorate the panels. Complimentary design decorate the cover, handle and underside of the spout. One side is also engraved with a lovely 'HDC' monogram and the other is dated '1849'.

The spout is sweet with its heart-shaped, hinged cover.  

Lincoln & Foss was the partnership of Albert L. Lincoln and Charles M. Foss. Their working dates are from 1848-57. According to an ad in The Boston Directory, they were successors to Lincoln & Reed and listed themselves as 'Importers and Dealers of Rich Watches, Jewelry and Silverware'. They were located at 65 Washington Street, Boston.¹

This rare small pitcher is marked 'LINCOLN & REED / BOSTON/'. It measures 7.25 inches high and 7 inches across the spout and handle, weighs 18.35 troy ounces and is in excellent antique condition with a minuscule pinprick to the handle. The wooden insulators are original.

Endnote:

1. The Boston Directory for the Year 1851, (Boston: George Adams, 1851), Harvard University Libraries accessed online 7/2/2012.