One of the most talented silversmiths of the 19th century, Edward C. Moore worked for Tiffany & Company from 1851 until his death. While in Paris to supervise Tiffany’s display at the 1867 Exposition Universelle, Moore was captivated by an exhibition of Japanese art. A few years later, he was creating memorable Japanesque designs in New York. In 1875, he introduced fish into his designs. Here, asymmetrically applied copper and silver fish swim a round the body of Moore’s vessel in a continuous scene. In 1880, the pitcher was presented as a gift to a prominent Baltimore physician, Dr. T. H. Buckler, whose distinguished patients included General Robert E. Lee.