A Quart Pewter Export Tankard by Townsend & Compton - SOLD

This tankard was made by the firm of Townsend & Compton, the partnership of John Townsend and his son-in-law, Thomas Compton: Compton married Townsend's (the boss's) daughter, Mary.

The firm was in business in London from 1784-1806. They had a lucrative trade with merchants in the United States. John Townsend who began his career in 1748 had established himself in the Colonies as a pewterer of high quality and integrity. In fact he traveled to the Colonies due to his connections as a Quaker. While here he certainly bolstered his business connections.

This quart tankard has a very "busy-turned" base. The metal is near fine with a very light surface distress. The touchmarks are strong and well struck. The interior has a slight "ring" half-way up the inside where liquid was allowed to sit, probably from flowers.

The tankard measures 7 5/8" to the top of the thumbpiece. This is very reasonably priced.