Marshall Field & Co. 'Colonial' Sterling Silver Arts & Crafts Water Pitcher, Chicago, 1907-c. 1925

This rare water pitcher was produced in the 'Colonial' line created by Marshall Field and Company of Chicago. The classic shape is given a modern interpretation and is made from multiple pieces. The bulbous body is seemlessly attached to the neck. There is an applied band bordering the top opening. A wonderful 3-part handle with curved interior is allied, as is the splayed band foot.

An irregularly hammered surface produces a stunning reflective effect. An exquisite hand-chased foliate design encircles the upper part of the body above a wonderful cut, engraved and applied 'VVS' monogram.

Marshall Field & Company was one of Chicago's most famous retail stores and makers of arts & crafts silver. In 1907, 'Field's announced a new retail line of hand-hammered Colonial silver in the arts & crafts style'.1

This rare arts & crafts pitcher is marked underneath 'MF & Co/ STERLING/ ColoniaL' within a rectangle and with the model or inventory number '4055'. It measures 8.75 inches wide across the handle and spout by 7.5 inches tall, weighs 23.70 troy ounces and is in excellent antique condition.

Endnote:

1. Darcy L. Evon, HAND WROUGHT Arts & Crafts Metalwork & Jewelry 1890-1940, (Atglen, PA, Schiffer Publishing Ltd, 2013), p. 127.