How do you clean the inside?

Warm water and a mild dish soap deal with most residue. You can use a soft bristle brush for stubborn marks at the bottom. Leave the interior to dry upside down. Trapped moisture causes spotting on the silver over time.

I have noticed some dark wooden handles on these silver jugs seem to have dried out and cracked. Is there a safe way to revive the wood?

A light application of mineral oil helps hydrate dry wooden handles. Wipe a tiny amount on with a soft cloth and let it soak in overnight. Buff away any excess the next morning. Avoid soaking the joints where the wood meets the silver sockets.

Can I pour hot water safely?

Yes. Silver conducts heat rapidly. The metal body will get hot fast. Just ensure you hold it by the insulated handle.

When looking at old claret jugs, why do so many of them feature glass bodies instead of being made mostly out of silver?

Glass let the host show off the rich colour of the wine. Solid silver hid the contents. Silversmiths began mounting crystal bodies with silver necks and handles to combine the visual appeal of the liquid with the prestige of precious metal.

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Antique Silver Jugs from the 19th Century

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Antique silver jugs are hollowware vessels with a pouring lip and a handle, originally made to serve everything from hot water and milk to wine and ale at the dining table.