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Image courtesy of the Franklin D. Roosevelt Presidential Library and Museum.
Image courtesy of the Franklin D. Roosevelt Presidential Library and Museum.
Monteith Bowl
Image courtesy of the Franklin D. Roosevelt Presidential Library and Museum.
Image courtesy of the Franklin D. Roosevelt Presidential Library and Museum.

Monteith Bowl

Artifact IDMO 1951.45.1
Object Type Bowl
Maker (American, 1655 - 1722)
Date1710-1722
Mediumsterling silver
Dimensionsoverall H 9 3/8 in x Diam 11 1/2 in (23.8 cm x 29.2 cm )
Physical DescriptionA large sterling silver bowl, the style of which is known as a monteith bowl. The bowl has a scalloped rim from which eight stemmed glasses hung by their feet, allowing the bowls of each glass to be chilled by immersion in iced water. It is thought that this was the only purpose originally of such bowls, but they were later used for serving punch and even for washing the glasses or transporting them safely from one room to another. Engraved on the bowl is the cypher "RAL" and the Livingston coat of arms, which has a false quartering.
Historical NoteEleanor Roosevelt inherited this Monteith bowl from her maternal Livingston ancestors. It bears the Livingston coat of arms. Crafted by Boston silversmith John Coney (1655-1722) for Robert and Alida Livingston, it reflects Mrs. Roosevelt’s family’s history, wealth, and stature. It is on display in the ELEANOR ROOSEVELT exhibit in the Museum’s FOUNDATIONS OF A PUBLIC LIFE gallery.
Additional Details
Credit LineGift of Eleanor Roosevelt
National Archives Catalog CollectionFranklin D. Roosevelt Library Museum Collection (National Archives Identifier 735948)
National Archives Catalog SeriesPersonal Possessions of the Roosevelt Family (National Archives Identifier 782689)
Use Restriction StatusUnrestrictedCopyrightReproduction or other use of these holdings or images thereof is unrestricted.
In Collection(s)
On view
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