The Deacon Hopestill Clap Tankard: An American silver tankard, Jacob Hurd, Boston, circa 1748

tapered cylindrical with molded girdle, engraved with Rogers arms in acanthus and diaper cartouche and in semi-script below mid-band, The Gift of Deacon HOPESTILL CLAP to the Church of Christ in Dorchester 1748 on front

Bequest of Hopestill Clap in 1748 to
The First Parish in Dorchester, Dorchester, MA

Boston: Museum of Fine Arts, 1911. American Church Silver of the Seventeenth and Eighteenth Centuries, with a few pieces of Domestic Plate, no. 660
Boston: Museum of Fine Arts, loan, 1938-2011

William Blake Trask, Early Matters Relating to the Town and First Church of Dorchester, 1886, p.11.
John Henry Buck, Old Plate, its Makers & Marks, 1903, p. 239.
E. Alfred Jones, The Old Silver of American Churches, 1913, p. 147-48.
Charles Knowles Bolton, Bolton's American Amory, 1927, p. 141.
Hollis French, Jacob Hurd and His Sons Nathaniel & Benjamin, Silversmiths 1702-1781, 1939, p. 45.
Patricia E. Kane, Colonial Massachusetts Silversmiths and Jewelers, 1998, p. 608.

Impressive clear and crisp engraving, sides a little bright, two outlines to right of handle - traces of marks?; good condition
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.

Captain Clapp and his wife were seemingly well-educated as both signed their 1680 deed.  Additionally, Captain Clapp penned his own memoirs late in life.  His memoirs, which were published by the Dorchester Antiquarian Historical Society in 1844, provide invaluable insight into 17^th century colonial life, including his voyage from England and interactions with the Indians.  Captain Clapp reflects upon his life in the developing colony: "I do not remember that ever I did wish in my heart that I had not come to this country, or wish myself back again to my father's house."