Shaving bowl

1750-1830

Measurements

1-7/8 in x 6-7/8 in (dia.)

Materials

Brass, copper (rivet)

Credit Line

Historic Odessa Foundation, The David Wilson Mansion, Inc.

Accession Number

1971.909

Provenance

Ex coll. Mrs. E. Tatnall (Mary Corbit) Warner.

Comments

Made of sheet brass, the bowl or basin has a wide, flat brim into which a curved section has been removed. This inset allows the user to tuck the bowl under his chin while soaping and sponging his face.  The bowl could also be used for letting blood by placing it into the crook of the elbow.

Dating this bowl is difficult because of its design simplicity.  A brass ring for hanging is attached to the underside with a copper rivet. The bowl stands on a molded, circular foot.  The edge of the foot and the brim is folded for strength, but not folded around an iron wire as was common in other brass work.