Late 18th-Century English Antique Leather Blackjack Tankard

This object is a handsome example of an English Blackjack or leather tankard, likely dating to the late 18th Century or possibly slightly earlier.

The tankard is of a tapering cylindrical form, crafted from thick, dark brown leather. The leather has a rich, aged patina that gives it a deep, almost black colour in places, with a slightly textured, worn surface characteristic of long use. The body and base are constructed of stitched leather, visible by the decorative, tightly-stitched, light-coloured or contrasting thread that outlines the base and the edges of the substantial, curved handle. This decorative stitching provides both structural integrity and a distinctive aesthetic.

Formed from wet leather shaped over a mould, historically, these vessels were made watertight by being lined on the interior with a coating of pitch, resin, or wax, which often contributed to their dark color. This particular tankard, with its simple, robust form and stitched construction, reflects the traditional craftsmanship used for centuries for these durable, practical drinking vessels.

History of the Name "Blackjack":

The name "Blackjack" for this type of leather drinking vessel has a few related theories concerning its origin, all pointing to the materials and function:

1. Pitch Lining: The most widely accepted explanation is related to the waterproofing. The interior of the leather vessel was coated with black pitch (brewer's pitch, pine resin, or similar tar-like substance) to make it watertight. This black coating made the container, particularly the inside and often the outside, "black", and the type of leather vessel was commonly called a "jack" (a medieval term for a leather jug or a type of stiff leather). Thus, the name "Blackjack."

 2. Jack Leather: The term "jack" was also applied to leather itself that had been specially treated by being boiled or soaked in hot water and dried, resulting in a stiff, hard material suitable for armor (like a "jack of plate") or drinking vessels. This "jack leather" when darkened by use or pitch became the "Blackjack."

3. Contrast with Bombards: The smaller, tankard-shaped vessels like the one pictured were generally called "Jacks," while larger, often pear-shaped pouring jugs were called "Bombards." Both were commonly black from the pitch lining.

Provenance - Ex-private collection, Norfolk, England.

Condition - Good overall. There is age-related surface wear. Please refer to the images. 

Size - 5 inches / approx 12.7 cm