American Colonial silver tankard, Joseph Richardson, Sr. Philadelphia, circa 1760, tapered cylindrical on molded rim, stepped domed cover with ornate peak, scroll thumbpiece and handle, shield-form terminal; engraved arms of LAWRENCE over initials ENL AL to FNL, and marked twice on body left of handle IR, the base engraved with scratch weight 30=2 oz dwt; H7 1/4" W8", and 29.0ozT Provenance: New York collection Literature: Related to example sold Sotheby's New York, 28-29 Oct. 2004, Lot 651. Other Notes: Joseph Richardson, Sr. (1711-1784) was the son of silversmith Francis Richardson and inherited his father's tools in 1729. In 1741 he bought a house on Front Street shortly before he married Hanna Worril, and later acquired a summer home, as well as extensive real estate holdings. After his wife's death in 1746/7, he married Mary Allen in February 1748 and had two sons Joseph Junior and Nathaniel. Richardson had a thriving business, was patronized by important Philadelphia families and was by far the most prolific silversmith in the region. His sons continued in the tradition and took over his tools in 1777 when Richardson retired.