"The William Vassal Tankard"

The following eight vessels constitute Harvard's ceremonial silver. They are taken out of Harvard Art Museum storage and displayed only for the most important occasions, most notably for presidential inaugurations. Information about their history and display are in the files of the University Portrait Collection: "The John Vassal Tankard", by Joseph Kneeland, American, 873.1927 "The William Vassal Tankard" by Joseph Kneeland, 874.1927 "The Dunster Tankard" by Ephraim Cobb, American, 876.1927 "The Stoughton Cup" by John Coney, American, 877.1927.A-B "The Holyoke Caudle Cup" by John Coney, 878.1927 "The Hedge Tankard" by Edward Winslow, American, 879.1927 "The Great Salt", unidentified British maker, 881.1927 "The Browne Cup," by John Burt, American, 882.1927.A-B This pair of tankards documents the designation of John Vassal (Class of 1732) and William Vassal (Class of 1733) as "Fellow Commoners." In return for a donation of silver and higher tuition, Fellow Commoners were listed at the head of their class, addressed as "Mister," and dined at the high table in the commons Hall.