Expert: Martin G Roberts - 5/11/2008

Question
QUESTION: Here is the 2nd picture of the set.

Can you tell me anyting about the pewter ? pitcher (set) I recently purchased?  It is a set of metal pitcher(s).  The large one is 8" and has 1 liter engraved on the handle, there are 3 smaller ones, the next largest is about 3 1/2" and engraved 1/2 deciliter, the second one is 2 1/2" and engraved 2 centiliter and the 3rd small one is 2" and the engraving is worn and unreadable.  They all have a hallmark stamped on the bottom.  An outline similar to a rectangle with a bulging middle and in the middle is a crown on top of a shield with two branches (appear to be differnt type leaves) around the shield, the shield is divided into 4 sections, the top (R) appears to be a sunburst symbol the bottom right vertical wavy lines, the top (L) is a setting sun ? and the bottom (L) horizontal straight lines.  underneath all this (but still within the outline) is a large M with what appears to be a F followed by 2 small cc at the top of the F.  Can you tell me are these pewter or what type of metal?  I can find anything.  It reminds me of pewter, but I'm just not sure.  The big one was 1/2 full of dirt and the inside is very rough, crusty and pitted.   I can't seem to attache but one picture at a time, so I'll send another msg with the other picture showing them.  Thank you  Darlene.

ANSWER: -

I forgot to say explicitly that yes, they are made of pewter.

Martin
www.antique-metalware.co.uk

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: I'm sorry if I've inundated you with questions, this is only the 2nd time I've used this site and I'm still trying to get the hang of it.  

Thank you for clarifying I wasn't completely sure if they were pewter.  I'm just an amateur collector and quite satisfied with them.  I thought they were European because of the metric marks but didn't know which country.  Since you referred to French metric markings in your first e-mail, can I assume they were brought over from France?  The estate I purchased them from ($8 for the set) had quite a few Spain and Italy marked pottery and figurines.  This was the only metal pieces.  Thank you again for your time and info on my questions.  It is greatly appreciated.

Answer
-

Authentic measures of this type were mostly used, and made, in France, though some were use, and perhaps made, in Belguim, and some were made in Spain. However, if I am right that these are reproductions, then they could have made anywhere.

You paid the right price for the reproductions!

Martin
www.antique-metalware.co.uk