Pitcher ca. 1872 Ball, Black & Co. American This pitcher is a rare example of mid-nineteenth-century American silver in the Egyptian revival taste. It was probably designed by John Rudolph Wendt for the leading silver retailer Ball, Black & Company. According to its engraved inscription, the pitcher was presented to J. W. Bowdish, founding cashier, by the Directors of the National Bank of Pawling.American sterling silver in the Egyptian Revival style is extremely rare. This stately pitcher incorporates Egyptian motifs into a bold, classic form. The result is a coherent and dynamic composition and a sophisticated expression of the prevailing Egyptian taste. At the time this pitcher was created, the German-trained silversmith John Rudolph Wendt was Ball, Black & Co.s primary designer and supplier, and the pitcher exemplifies the exceptional quality for which Wendt is known.. Pitcher 18818