Pocket flask

Slipped into a gentleman’s pocket, this richly decorated silver flask signified the taste and wealth of its owner and served the practical purpose of a portable source of about six ounces of liquid refreshment. The sumptuous Rococo-revival decoration served especially well for a flask. Made to be held in the hand, its gently rounded form and highly textured surface offered a pleasant tactile experience and gave no evidence of fingerprints to mar its appearance. In the late nineteenth century, Tiffany and other luxury jewelers advertised an overwhelming variety of personal items made in sterling silver and decorated in many styles for men, women, and children. Along with pocket flasks, “Presents for Men” in Tiffany’s 1880 catalogue included almost fifty categories, including silver-mounted canes, compass cases, ash receivers, telescoping drinking cups, silver bells for library or dinner table, claret pitchers with silver mountings, horse bits, match boxes, whistles, and wine labels.

This text has been adapted from "Silver of the Americas, 1600-2000," edited by Jeannine Falino and Gerald W.R. Ward, published in 2008 by the MFA. Complete references can be found in that publication.