How do I identify a seventeenth-century charger?

Seventeenth-century chargers typically feature broad rims and multiple reeded edges. They often display visible hammer marks across the surface. Makers from this era frequently struck their touchmarks near the rim or inside the well.

What is the difference between a charger and a platter?

Chargers are generally larger, heavier plates designed for formal display or serving multiple portions. Platters share a similar flat or slightly dished form for presenting food. Both categories appear extensively in Georgian and earlier English pewter.

How should I care for antique pewter?

Pewter requires gentle cleaning with mild soap and warm water, followed by immediate drying with a soft cloth. Avoid abrasive polishes that remove the historic surface patina. Store pieces in a stable environment away from extreme humidity.

What do touchmarks tell us?

Touchmarks identify the individual pewterer or workshop responsible for the piece. They often include initials, symbols, or town marks. Referencing these marks allows collectors to date dishes within specific centuries.