This monumental sterling silver pitcher, designed by William Boggart for Tiffany & Co., is an extraordinary example of nineteenth-century American silver craftsmanship. The surface is richly adorned with high-relief vines, foliage, and birds, all modeled with exceptional naturalistic detail. The sculptural handle echoes this organic motif, its flowing form integrating seamlessly with the elaborate decoration that envelops the entire vessel.
The pitcher bears a deeply personal presentation inscription to George W. Norton, reading: “My more than friend” from Robert Frazer, and as a token of love and gratitude from his family. Lexington, KY. February 5th, 1872. This lengthy dedication, combined with the ambitious scale and quality of the piece, underscores its importance as a significant ceremonial gift.
The classical design of the vessel can be traced to Moses Henry’s 1814 publication, 'A Collection of Antique Vases, Altars, Paterae, Tripods, Candelabra, Sarcophagi &c. from Various Collections', where a related form appears in plate 28. Although inspired by this neoclassical model, the Tiffany interpretation brings a distinct nineteenth-century sensibility, replacing the ancient motifs with more contemporary, Japanese-influenced birds and botanical elements as well as the English influenced Green Man Spout. The resulting composition blends classical structure with Aesthetic-period naturalism, creating a uniquely American reinterpretation of an antique prototype.
George W. Norton, the recipient of this pitcher, served as the head of the Southern Bank of Kentucky. During the Civil War, he and a trusted clerk played a crucial role in safeguarding the bank’s funds, preventing the Provisional Government of Kentucky from seizing money that belonged to the people in order to finance their operations. This courageous act of integrity underscores the deep gratitude expressed in the inscription and enhances the historical significance of the piece.
Together, the distinguished maker, the remarkable design lineage, and the meaningful provenance make this pitcher an exceptional example of Tiffany & Co.’s monumental silverwork.
