Shaving jug

ca. 1730–40

Not on view

This brass jug was intended to hold warm water for shaving, and would have been used in tandem with a basin that had a notched rim to be held firmly against the neck. Much of the 18th century domestic brass that we see today was originally silvered, but through use has lost its plating. More affordable than pure silver, silvered brass was nonetheless intended to make a statement about the owner’s taste and means.

Artwork Details

Overview

Signatures, Inscriptions, and Markings

Provenance

Title: Shaving jug
Date: ca. 1730–40
Culture: British
Medium: Silvered brass
Dimensions: Overall (confirmed): 7 3/8 × 5 1/8 × 3 in. (18.7 × 13 × 7.6 cm)
Classification: Metalwork-Brass
Credit Line: Purchase, Funds from various donors, by exchange, 2017
Object Number: 2017.297
Curatorial Department: European Sculpture and Decorative Arts

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