Antique Heavy Continental Rounded Pewter Flagon with Lid and Applied Handle
Description: Antique and rather heavy (weighs 1 pound 3 ounces for a height of 5 1/2") rounded pewter flagon. The flagon has a round stepped up base which leads to a round belly like portion in the middle of the flagon. Thereafter the flagon tapers into a long neck rising to a cup like top. There is a lid that fits within the cup and closes the top of the flagon tightly. the lid is hinged on the end of an applied flat ribbon handle with a stepped design near the top. The handle starts at the top of the flagon and ends in the middle of the round portion. The lid has a thumb piece, which is flat and has wear from use over the years. The flagon is unmarked as to the maker but has the letter "H" scratched into the base. This is a true antique piece which we believe is from the mid 18th century. Just a great old piece which would display nicely and would make a great addition to your collection. See flagon 709 in Peter Hornsby's book "Pewter of The Western World 1600-1850" published Schiffer Publishing Ltd. in 1983 for a similar example. Please carefully review the photos as they are part and parcel of our description.
Date: Uncertain but most likely mid 18th century.
Origin: Purchased at an estate auction in Southeastern Pennsylvania. The flagon was most likely made in France or Switzerland.
Size: Measures ~3" in diameter at the base and ~2 1/2" in diameter at the top. It is ~4" at its widest including the handle, and is ~5 12" high to the top. The piece weighs over 1 pound and 3 ounces.
Maker: Unknown.
Marks: Unmarked as to the maker but has the letter "H" scratched into the base.
Distinguishing Characteristics - Most Interesting About The Piece: This is a great looking antique worthy of a spot in your collection.
Condition: This flagon is in good condition with no breaks, cracks, or repairs. It does have many scratches and several dings especially on the belly which have darkened nicely with dirt accumulation over the years giving the piece a great look. The rim of the top cup is a bit distorted and as such the lid rubs against it when it is opened and closed. The edge of the base is also has minor dings and is a bit distorted. The piece has a beautiful warm gray patina and a few darker spots on the surface which looks great. All of these issues can be seen in the photos. Note dirt and oxidation inside the piece and remnant of a label on the base, which we chose not to remove. A beautiful piece of very nice form, which would look great in your collection of old pewter. Please see photos to appreciate the beauty of this piece and for additional condition information.
