This rather glorious sterling silver tazza or footed comport was likely made by John R. Wendt in the 1870s. The figural piece features a stepped circular base which is topped by a classical figure of a woman in a robe who is holding atop her head a domed silver bowl with two decorative handles. Whilst the piece is unmarked for a silversmith it is a design that is noted to be one by John R. Wendt (1826-1907) who was working in the second half of the 19th Century in New York. Wendt was known to rarely mark his work and his pieces are usually only marked for their retailer such as Ball, Black & Co. This piece is a beautiful example of American, 19th Century 'neo classical' style silversmithing and would be beautiful filled with a supply of fresh berries.
Marked - 'ENGLISH STERLING' and '166'
Dimensions - 29cm H
Total weight of piece - 1061 grams