American (New York), ca 1838. A coin silver soup tureen by Marquand & Co., having a stepped foot and lid, the foot, collar and rim with egg and dart decoration, one side with engraved wreath enclosing presentation reading From the family of / George Gibbs of Sunswick / to their esteemed friend Samuel Stevens / 1838. Maker's mark impressed to underside of foot; oah. 14, wd. 16.75 in. (including handles), silver wt. 118.73ozt (3692.5g).

George Gibbs (1777-1834) was best known as a mineralogist. He assembled the United States' largest collection of mineral specimens, which was mounted as an exhibition at Yale University in 1805, and eventually sold to the school. Gibbs also had an interest in American painting, and commissioned presidential portraits from Gilbert Stuart, now housed at the National Gallery.

Samuel Stevens (1778-1860) came to prominence as a Maryland militia captain during the War of 1812. He went on to a notable political career, first as a member of the Maryland House of Representatives and then as governor of that state, serving three terms.

Provenance: Ex Sotheby's, January 18th, 2008, Lot 58. Property from the Collection of Dr. M. Donald Hayes. To Be Sold Without Reserve