How do I clean a vintage silver plate drink shaker?

Wash the interior by hand with warm soapy water and avoid soaking pieces that contain cork components or mechanical parts. Polish the exterior gently with a specialised silver cloth to preserve the plating. Harsh chemical dips strip the finish and damage older surfaces. Store the vessel dry with the lid slightly ajar to maintain internal freshness.

Are these cocktail shakers still functional for mixing drinks?

Most surviving examples remain fully capable of mixing beverages if the internal seals and corks are intact. Metal-on-metal fits can loosen over time, so testing with cold water first is advisable. Mechanical models with rotating dials require careful handling during use and washing to protect the internal linkages.

How can I identify an Art Deco design?

Art Deco barware relies on clean geometric lines, symmetrical motifs, and streamlined industrial forms. Engine-turned patterns and contrasting materials like bakelite are common hallmarks of this era. These pieces emphasise functional elegance, reflecting the design trends of the 1920s and 1930s.