posnets

The small porringers are sometimes called posnets, which is an old-time word that may originally have referred to a posset-cup.

Home Life in Colonial Days Alice Morse Earle 1881

I have also been told that these little porringers were not posnets, but simply the samples of work made by apprentices in the pewterer's trade to show their skill and proficiency.

Customs and Fashions in Old New England Alice Morse Earle 1881

By these records we see that posnets were of various metals, and sometimes had covers.

Customs and Fashions in Old New England Alice Morse Earle 1881

I have heard the tiny little shallow pewter porringers, about two or three inches in diameter, with pierced handles, which are still found in New England, called posnets.

Customs and Fashions in Old New England Alice Morse Earle 1881