Altar cruet
ca. 1780–1800
Pewter
Overall: 2 1/4 in. × 2 1/4 in. × 5 in. × 4 5/8 in. (5.7 × 5.7 × 12.7 × 11.7 cm)
Gift of Samuel V. Hoffman
1922.44
The 'V' engraved on the spout is an abbreviation for vino (wine). This altar cruet would have been part of a three piece set including an additional cruet similarly marked with an "A" on the spout, an abbreviation for aqua (water), and a chalice.
Markingsengraved: on spout: "V"
ClassificationsPEWTER
DescriptionUrn-shaped pewter altar cruet with high circular base, broken scroll handle, shell thumbpiece, hinged dome lid with acorn finial, and applied beak- shaped spout; molded gadronned decoration on body and lid.Object NameAltar cruet
