An American Silver Bowl, Samuel Casey, South Kingston, R.I., circa 1760

circular with flaring rim, raised on molded spreading foot, base engraved with contemporary initials A*M

Sold, Sotheby Parke Bernet, New York, 28, 30 June 1984, lot 77

one tiny rim split, overall good condition, clear mark
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.

Samuel Casey was born in Newport, RI in 1723 or 1724, and became a freeman in Exeter RI; he moved to Little Rest (now South Kingston) by 1750, where he is described as silversmith and merchant.  In September 1764 his house and shop were destroyed  by a fire which spread from the forge.  Frequently in debt after this disaster, in 1770 he was imprisoned  for counterfeiting coins and sentenced to death by hanging.  A mob with blackened faces attacked the jail and freed the prisoners.  Casey went into hiding, but was eventually pardoned in September 1770 by the appeal of his wife.

Casey was the maker of the silver mounts on the Nathaniel Appleton secretary bookcase, attributed to Job Townsend of Rhode Island (sold Sotheby’s , New York, January 17 1999, lot 704).  The only known  example of silver mounts on Colonial North American furniture, the piece  sold for  $8.25 million, the second-highest price paid for American furniture at auction.