Flask or wine can

c. 1716-1760

Measurements

10-1/2 in x 5-1/4 in x 4-3/4 in

Materials

Pewter

Credit Line

Historic Odessa Foundation, The David Wilson Mansion, Inc.

Accession Number

1971.902

Inscription

"Ana / Margareta / Sturmin / 1716" is engraved into the front panel.  The initials S E reportedly flank the anchor in the maker's touchmark.

Comments

This hexagonal container for liquids is of a form associated with Eastern Germany and Central Europe.  It has been described as a vessel for carrying and holding wine, honey, oil, syrup, and related liquids of value.  It has a screw-on lid that protects the contents from spilling and, typically, the objects are decorated, making them suitable for table use.  

The name engraved on the front panel is of Germanic origin but otherwise unknown.  The five other panels bear images of flowers, a horse, a bird, and a bull.  It is possible that they were engraved later to enhance the object.

The maker's touch, struck twice on the lid, has not been identified.  It shows a central anchor flanked by the letters S and E.