An American Silver Beaker, New York, circa 1730

with molded base band, engraved on one side with contemporary arms and crest under with a foliate mantle, the underside engraved with initials DC, and Elizabet Clarkson

The arms are those of Clarkson, for David Clarkson (1694-1751), of New York, whose contemporary block initials DC are engraved on the base.  The engraved name "Elisabet Clarkson" is that of Elizabeth French Clarkson (1724-1808), wife of David Clarkson's second oldest son, David (1726-82).

David Clarkson
Elizabeth French Clarkson, thence by descent

pattern of mark inside cup probably from being used as a holder, small dent to lower body left of arms, lower edge of sheild worn, foot rim slightly later?
In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective qualified opinion.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.

Hon. David Clarkson (1694-1751) was born in New York City, the first son of Matthew Clarkson (1664-1702), Secretary of the Province.  Matthew Clarkson, who was born in England settled permanently in New York City in 1692, where he married Catharina Van Shaick of Albany.  David was only eight years old when both of his parents died, and was sent to live with his maiden aunt, Margrieta Van Schaick.  It is believed that David was eventually sent to live with his father's relatives in England where he attended school. He established himself in the mercantile trade 1718, and returned to New York in 1724 and became involved in foreign trade. On 25 January 1724 he married his cousin Ann Margaret Freeman (1706-59) daughter of Rev. Bernardus and Margrieta Van Schaick Freeman.  David served a representative in five successive assemblies from 1739 to 1751, and was considered to be extremely vocal in his belief that the colonists were entitled to the same privliges as Englishmen.  David and Ann had seven children, four of which survived into adulthood.

Like his father, David Clarkson, Jr. (1726-82) was enducated in England.  In 1749 he reutned to New York and later that year on 3May 3rd he married Elizabeth French (1724-1808), daughter of Philip French and Susanna Brockholst of New York, grand-daughter of Governor Anthony Brockholst.  David and Elizabeth lived in a house on Whitehall Street that had been purchased by David Sr. in 1732.  The couple lived a lavish lifestyle and their home, which was later destroyed in 1776) was furnished primarily with furniture imported from Europe and damask and silks from England.  David was also involved in his familie's mercantile business and earned additional income from underwriting ships used for foreign trade.  Also, like his father he believed strongly in the colonists rights and was known to have adcanced money to the city and state for revolutionary purposes.