An American Silver Punch Bowl Yacht Trophy, Whiting Mfg. Co., New York, circa 1875

the hemipsherical bowl engraved on both sides with presentation inscriptions below a formal foliage rim, double-thyrsus handles mounted above bold bacchic masks flanked by pendant grapevine, screw-on cruciform foot banded by a laurel wreath

recently cleaned, overall 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.

John Rogers Maxwell (1846-1910) was born in lower Manhattan and raised in Brooklyn, where he lived for the rest of his life.  He began his career at the American Exchange National Bank, before establishing the Maxwell & Graves banking and brokerage firm with his father and Henry Graves in 1865.  Five years later a syndicate company of of which he was a member purchased the Central Railroad of New Jersey and Maxwell was appointed President.  He later served as Chairman of the Executive Committee, a position he held until his 1910 death.

An avid yachtsman, Maxwell was a member of both the New York Yacht Club and the Atlantic Yacht Club.  At the time of his death he owned three yachts, but put only one into commission the previous season.