DISCOVERART

E. G. Webster and Son

Coffee or Tea Service

1870–73
Silver

SEE IT IN PERSON

Not currently on view

In the collection of Art Institute of Chicago, Chicago · as of July 2026

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Discussion

FROM THE ART INSTITUTE OF CHICAGO’S CATALOG

The Brooklyn firm Webster Manufacturing Company was one of many silver manufacturers in the New York region serving the burgeoning consumer society of the late 19th century. This coffee or tea service was typical of the company’s products, which were primarily silver hollowware. The use of electroplating and a drop in the price of silver during the period made merchandise like this affordable to a much wider population than ever before. Moreover, electroplating added value to functional, everyday objects, an aim of the Aesthetic movement, the influence of which can also be seen in the strong geometric style visible in these pieces’ legs and handles.

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