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.
Question I have a teapot approx. 8"- 9" tall, made by Sir John Benwell Ltd. (or Benuel). The knob on the lid has a centre column with two smaller ones on either side. The markings underneath show a crown with a wreath beneath it, with the words 'British Made' on the wreath, and 'A1' in the centre. There is also a small stamp underneath, looks a bit like an eye. Not sure whether it is silver or pewter.
Haven't been able to find anything on the net about it. Wondered if you could help.
Many thanks,
James
Answer -
Definitely not silver, as it does not have silver hallmarks.
Otherwise, I cannot help - the name is not familiar to me, and the description of the marks doesn't ring any bells.
I would suggest "Sir John Benwell" is a curious maker's name - perhaps it is an ownership inscription instead?
