Cann

Perfectly proportioned and restrained in its decoration, canns of this elegant form were often ordered from American craftsmen of the last half of the 18th century. Many were wrought by Myer Myers, New York City's leading silversmith of the time, but this cann is special. It bears Myers's marks stuck over, and obliterating, English sterling hallmarks, showing it was likely imported for resale through his shop. This piece may have been amongst some £600 or £700 of unnamed merchandise purchased in London by Myer's brother Joseph in 1758.

Myers, born in New York to a Jewish family, had a career which spanned a half century. Despite his heritage, he was so well respected he became Freeman of the Corporation of New York City, which allowed him to conduct business, serve in public office, and even vote in elections. It is thought around twenty-eight of Myers's silver canns survive, this one bearing the engraved initials of an unidentified married couple on the handle.
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