Expert: Martin G Roberts - 11/28/2007

Question
Mr. Roberts, first up thank you for what you do.
I have a question about a pewter pitcher that has been handed down in my family since a very long time but I don't know the origin or age. It has a lid with some kind of crest on it that shows an angelhead with wings and a crown on the head. On top of the angels head and wings is some kind of ornate thing. The pitcher is 13 inches high, that includes the lid. Without the lid it is 9 1/2 inches. Diameter on the bottom is 5 inches on top 3 inches.It's handle is about 8 inches. There is no mark on the bottom from the out side but three crest looking marks on the inside of the bottom. As far as I can make it out the mark has a lion on the right side on the crest an initials on the side. I think I see an F on the left side and a K on the right side. On the out side it has initials engraved J.M.R. and a date 1792. The initials and the date are framed onto swirly carvings. It stands on three round legs each one about 1 inch high. Oh I almost forgot. On that inside crest there is also, what I think a city name. If I am not wrong I spells Oppenheim or Offenheim. Or something close.
Like I said this thing was in my family since a long time but since my parents are not around I have no way to find out where it came from.
If you could just help me to find the things history or how old it truly is.
I appreciate your time

Thanks in advance and have a great day

Answer
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That's a very elaborate piece you have. It is difficult for me to give you any precise information unless I see a photo of the piece. If you have one, please email it to stynt@btopenworld.com, and I shall commment further.

Martin
www.antique-metalware.co.uk