inscribed "Presented to John Chase Esq / by the Directors of the / Springfield Canal Co. / January 1st 1846", Wolcott & Gelston for Lincoln & Reed, fine condition, height 4 1/2 inches, diameter 6 1/2 inches, weight 15.5 oz. Troy. John Chase was among the original ten members of the MIT Corporation.
Let's stop right there. I don't for a moment believe that this item was made in Boston. Most everything about it: the floral four toed feet, chased foliage with "ring matted" background (see Forbes, plate 41), silversmith's center punch on the top (see fourth photo), the overall heft and construction suggest that it was made in Canton province. Can I prove it? No, not yet at any rate. Diameter, 8.5"; height .75"; weight 14.0 oz. Troy; a few minor scratch ...click for details
Gorham (see Tompkins, plates 50 & 60) engraved anthemion and engine turned decoration, each with two cast and chased scrolled handles, top diameter 2 1/8 inches, length across handles 3 3/4 inches, good condition, no monogram.
