William Faris, Sr.
Cream Pot
c. 1775
Physical Qualities
Silver, 3 7/8 x 2 5/8 x 4 1/8 in. (9.8 x 6.7 x 10.5 cm)
Credit Line
Gift of Virginia P.B. White, Baltimore
Object Number
1933.54.25
Cream pots, such as this one, were often the first piece of silver acquired for Americans’ tea tables. Such utensils were used throughout the colonies with Chinese export ceramic teapots, cups, and saucers. The Chinese did not use milk or cream in their tea, so they were not accustomed to making ceramic pitchers.
Baltimore Museum of Art by gift, 1933; Virginia Purviance Bonsal White (1869-1955), Baltimore, MD by purchase, November 1927; Mary Frances Sill (1866-1947), MD
Maryland Historical Society, "A Gardener's Tale: The Eighteenth Century World of Annapolis Silversmith Wiliam Faris", March 25, 2005-November 26, 2005.
Goldsborough, Jennifer Faulds. "Silver in Maryland", Baltimore: Maryland Historical Society, 1983. p. 113, ill.
Markings: "W.F." stamp
On View: American Wing Second Floor, Eltonhead Hallway/Case 2
