How do I clean antique silver casters?

Clean antique silver casters using a soft cloth and specialist silver polish designed to remove tarnish without harming the metal. Avoid harsh abrasives or soaking pieces that combine silver with glass or weighted bases. Regular, gentle dusting and minimal polishing help preserve the original hallmarks and surface patina over time.

How do I identify the date of a silver caster?

Identify the date of a silver caster by examining the hallmarks stamped into the metal surface, which typically include a specific date letter. Comparing the style - such as George I, Georgian, Victorian, or Art Deco - alongside maker marks provides a reliable timeframe for manufacture. Reference books and online assay office records help decode individual maker marks and date ciphers.

Were novelty pepper pots used daily?

Novelty pepper pots shaped like owls, birds, foxes, and dragons served both decorative and practical functions on dining tables across the Victorian and Edwardian periods. Wealthy households often utilised whimsical tableware to spark conversation during formal meals. Many of these figural pieces remain functional today while acting as collectible cabinet items.