Expert: Martin G Roberts - 9/27/2008

Question
If a pewter piece is marked 'International', is it considered a quality piece?  Also, what are other manufacturer names to look for when old or antique pieces?  I love the look of pewter and don't want to get any worthless pieces.  Please educate me!  Thanks

Answer
-

"International" is a tradename found on modern reproduction pieces.

The range of styles and collecting options in antique pewter is huge, so it is impossible to recommend specific names. You should consider what themes appeal to you (e.g. pub wares, table wares, tea wares, church pieces, medical items, lighting devices, etc.), what part of the world interests you (i.e. American, British, Irish, French, Chinese, etc.) and what periods most attract you (early 20th Century, 19th Century, 18th Century or 17th Century; or, if you prefer: Art Deco, Art Nouveau, Victorian, Georgian, etc.)

The best place to start is to buy a book that provides a good general introduction to the subject. I know that sounds dull, but it really is the right way to go. For those interested in British or Irish pewter, I usually recommend Peal: Pewter of Great Britain, though that is quite hard to find. Alternatives are Peal: British Pewter and Britannia Metal for Pleasure and Investment, or Michaelis: British Pewter, though both are out of date now.

Online, a good cross-section of the earlier and scarcer types of British pewter is available by accessing the catalogue of the Colonial Williamsburg collection here:  http://books.google.co.uk/books?id=MwJqjePrg1AC&printsec=frontcover&dq=williamsb...

Hope that helps.

Martin
www.antique-metalware.co.uk