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Collectibles-General (Antiques)/Pewter Tea Caddy or Tobacco Caddy

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Expert: Martin G Roberts - 1/17/2008


Question

Tea Caddy
Mr. Roberts,
I have a pewter container that is marked RF Sturges. It stands 5" tall to the finial, and is 4" square. It has its lid and also a pewter insert that appears to be a press. It is just under 4" square, flat, with a small knob. Outside of container is decorated with a lovely floral design.
  Could you enlighten me as to its history,age, and value.
 Alex

Answer
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Richard Ford Sturges was a Birmingham, England, maker of Britannia metal wares. BM is a pewter alloy formulated for fabrication (rolling, spinning, stamping, etc) rather than casting. He started out in partnership with his mother, Elizabeth, and continued on his own account from 1841 until his death in 1859.

This is one of his tobacco jars - they are quite distinctive, as they feature his patented method of applying a pattern to the surface of the metal.

Fairly common, and BM is not popular with collectors, so the value is not great. Probably less than 50 pounds / 100 dollars.

Martin
www.antique-metalware.co.uk
    Questioner's Rating
    Rating(1-10)Knowledgeability = 10Clarity of Response = 10Politeness = 10
    CommentWhat a great service!! Thank you Mr. Roberts.


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Martin G Roberts

Expertise

Pewter of the 19th Century and earlier from the British Isles and Ireland. I can comment on origin, date, rarity, and value. I cannot give detailed information on 'art' metalware, Art Deco, Art Nouveau or Arts & Crafts metalware. See my website for more information: www.antique-metalware.co.uk.

Experience

A collector for twelve years and a dealer for seven.

Publications
Journal of the Pewter Society
Pewter Society Newsletter
Bulletin of the Pewter Collectors' Club of America

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