AboutMartin Roberts Expertise Antique base metalware, principally BRITISH PEWTER. Expertise is in pre-1900 functional wares, NOT the decorative arts, Arts & Crafts, Art Deco or Art Nouveau - none of these are of interest to me, and questions related to such items will receive curt responses.
Before asking a question, try exploring some of the information on my website: www.antique-metalware.co.uk. The `Useful Links` page contains all sorts of pertinent information.
Experience A collector for 10 years, and a dealer for 4 years. Proprietor of the AntiqueMetalware website: www.antique-metalware.co.uk
Organizations The Pewter Society (UK); The Pewter Collectors' Club of America.
Expert: Martin Roberts Date: 11/23/2007 Subject: Antique? jug
Question Hi,
I bought a little jug from a charity shop a couple of years ago for AUS 50cents, basically because I thought it was really pretty and very cheap. I was hoping you could give me some info about it ( a friend said it may be antique).
The markings are:
A
E.P.B.M
IN ENGLAND
It stands 6 inches tall, has a question mark shaped handle, hinged lid and pouring lip. It is also lightly decorated at the top and bottom with an engraved pattern.
I can email photos if need be.
Thanks for you time,
Tracey :)
Answer -
Dates around 1900. Made of eletroplated Britannia metal (EPBM), a cheap silver substitute. BM is a pewter alloy formulated for fabrication (rolling, stamping, spinning, etc) rather than casting.
Probably made in either Sheffield or Birmingham.
So yes, it is just about antique, but EPBM is not popular with collectors.
