A rare silver tea strainer, Richard Humphreys (1750-1832), Philadelphia, PA, circa 1775

Engraved with monogram, “H/ RA,” marked to underside of handle.

L: 3 7/8 in. W: 2 ¾ in., Weight: 1.24 oz. t.

Provenance

Owned by Richard Humphreys (1750-1832) and Ann Morris Humphreys (1754-1842) of Philadelphia.
By descent in family to the present owners.

Footnotes

The monogram, “H/ RA,” stands for the conjoined initials of Richard and his second wife, Ann Morris. They were married on June 16, 1774.

Born in Tortola, Richard Humphreys came from a wealthy Quaker background. He was both a silversmith and activist. Contradicting his parents, plantation owners who prospered from slave labor, he championed the freedom and advancement of African Americans, founding The Institute for Colored Youth in 1837. This school was later renamed Cheyney University, and is still known as the oldest historically black college in America.

lot 65: with some very minor scratches and mild rubbing commensurate with age and use; small cracks to either side of handle attachment along rim of bowl; cup clip along rim with roughness along top edge- appears to be missing element