Samuel Edwards (silversmith)

Samuel Edwards (1705-1762) was a prominent American silversmith working in Boston, Massachusetts during the 18th century. He was the son of John Edwards Sr., also a silversmith, and belonged to a family renowned for their contributions to the craft.

Edwards trained under his father and continued the family tradition of producing high-quality silver pieces, including tankards, teapots, porringers, and other domestic wares. His work is characterized by its elegant design, fine craftsmanship, and the use of traditional forms. He often incorporated simple, yet sophisticated, decorative elements such as molded rims, engraved cartouches, and subtle chasing.

Edwards's maker's mark, typically "S.EDWARDS" stamped in a rectangle or oval, is a key identifier for his silver pieces. His work is highly sought after by collectors and can be found in the collections of major museums, including the Museum of Fine Arts, Boston, and the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York. He played a significant role in shaping the aesthetic landscape of colonial New England silver.