Georgian Silver Flagon
A georgian silver flagon is a substantial drinking vessel in sterling silver, old sheffield plate or pewter, chosen for its commanding presence on the sideboard.
Georgian Silver Flagon
When you search for georgian silver flagon, you are looking at substantial vessels designed for holding liquids, most commonly met here as beer jugs, tankards, and coffee pots from the eighteenth century. These pieces encompass drinking vessels and ewers in materials ranging from sterling silver to old sheffield plate and pewter.
The selections available run from George II sterling silver tankards with hinged lids to large old sheffield plated beer jugs and stoneware jugs fitted with sterling silver collars. Forms vary from quart tankards and ale jugs to ecclesiastical communion vessels and coffee pots, reflecting the varied domestic and institutional uses of the period.
How they were made
Makers shaped sterling silver and old sheffield plate by hand, hammering and soldering metal sheets to form sturdy bodies with secure handles and hinged lids. Old sheffield plate pieces fused a thin layer of silver onto a copper core, leaving the underlying metal visible only where wear reveals it.
Pewter vessels utilised tin-based alloys cast in moulds to create thick walls suited for holding ale, while stoneware jugs incorporated applied sterling silver collars and mounts. Silversmiths added functional details such as spouts and early marks to identify origin and standard.
One hefty ale jug holds a full gallon of liquid, ready for a very thirsty eighteenth-century household.
What varies in quality
Quality rests in the weight of the metal, the crispness of early marks, and the structural integrity of the hinged lid and handle attachment. Sterling silver examples demonstrate superior durability, whereas old sheffield plate quality depends upon the preservation of the silver layer over the copper base.
The finesse of the silversmith's handiwork defines the better pieces, seen in balanced proportions and clean joins rather than mere decorative flourish. Vessels retaining clear hallmarks and original components hold greater historical interest than those with later alterations.
Edward Power
The Georgian Silver Flagon Glossary
- Flagon
- A large drinking vessel with a handle and lid, traditionally used for wine, ale or communion service. These pieces form the core of the drinkware category.
- Old Sheffield Plate
- A material created by fusing a thin sheet of silver to a thick copper base, developed in the eighteenth century. Pieces made this way show characteristic copper bleed along edges and seams.
- Tankard
- A tall, cylindrical drinking vessel featuring a single handle and frequently a hinged lid. They appear in sterling silver, old sheffield plate and pewter across the georgian era.
- Hallmark
- A series of official stamps applied to precious metals to guarantee purity and origin. These marks identify the assay office, maker and year of manufacture on sterling silver pieces.
- Ewer
- A large pitcher with a wide spout and flared base, used historically for pouring water or wine. They sit within the broader category of drinkware and ecclesiastical vessels.
Georgian Silver Flagon: Frequently Asked Questions
What is a georgian silver flagon used for?
These vessels served primarily for pouring and holding large quantities of ale, beer, coffee or wine at the table or during ecclesiastical services.
Their robust construction and lidded designs kept contents covered and made them central items for communal dining and hospitality.
How do I care for old sheffield plate?
Clean old sheffield plate gently with a soft cloth and non-abrasive silver polish to protect the thin silver layer over the copper core.
Avoid aggressive scrubbing that might wear through the surface and expose the underlying metal.
How can I tell sterling silver from old sheffield plate?
Sterling silver pieces bear hallmarks indicating metal purity and carry a uniform colour throughout the object.
Old sheffield plate often reveals a faint reddish copper hue along the rims or edges where the outer silver layer has worn thin.