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Vase

Designed by: Arthur Stone (American, born in England, 1847–1938)
Made by: Herbert A. Taylor (born in 1871)
about 1908
Object Place: Gardner, Massachusetts, United States

Medium/Technique Copper, silver
Dimensions Overall: 10.4 x 12.4 cm (4 1/8 x 4 7/8 in.)
Credit Line Seth K. Sweetser Fund
Accession Number1978.246
CollectionsAmericas
ClassificationsSilver hollowware
Stone’s chief assistants ably assimilated his hand and style, a fact well demonstrated by Herbert Taylor’s skillful combination of the elements of this vessel. Note the way that the applied silver-and-chased ornament complement and harmonize with the modulated shape and hammered surface. Taylor was head craftsman in Stone’s shop and achieved medalist status in the Society of Arts and Crafts. He helped fashion this delicate vase about the time that Stone created one of his most celebrated pieces of ecclesiastical silver, a gold monstrance for the Church of the Advent in Boston.

This text has been adapted from "Silver of the Americas, 1600-2000," edited by Jeannine Falino and Gerald W.R. Ward, published in 2008 by the MFA. Complete references can be found in that publication.

DescriptionThe raised globular copper body tapers at the top and has decorative chased arches embellished with chased leaves and silver rosettes. The rim is finished with an applied silver band, and the rich red surface appears to have been selectively polished and then lacquered. The inside of the vase has become encrusted with verdigris, indicating regular use.
Marks “Stone [with profile of incuse chasing hammer stamped across St] / T” struck on base, at center.
InscriptionsNone.
ProvenanceArthur and Elizabeth Bent Stone estate to their companion Annie E. Priest; by descent to Alma Bent, Stone’s cousin, from whom the Museum purchased the piece.