Hot water plate (Dish warmer)

Description

This pewter hot water plate was cast in Philadelphia by William Will, a pewterer active in the late 18th century. He created it from two approximately 9¼ inch diameter plates joined together with a vertical wall to form a sealed hollow chamber. A small square, hinged door on the upper rim allowed hot water to be poured inside the chamber to keep dishes on the surface warm. There are two hinged bail handles on opposite sides making it easier and safer to carry when hot, reflecting the needs of households to keep prepared food from a kitchen warm on a table or sideboard. The form offers insight into culinary practices and the spatial organization of dining environments. Hot water plates were relatively uncommon in early America and cost considerably more than standard pewter dishes, which may explain why few survive. Several marks appear on the underside, including a crowned “X”, Will’s name, and the mark of a balance and scales stamped twice. The scales likely refer to Will’s service as a high sheriff of Philadelphia from 1780 to 1783, which helps establish when the plate was made.