How do I use a vintage cocktail shaker?

These vessels were designed for mixing spirits with ice before straining into glasses. Many include built-in strainers or removable tops to hold back the ice. Some examples feature rotating bands or sliding panels that display drink recipes directly on the body of the shaker.

What periods do these shakers come from?

The pieces span the twentieth century, with a strong concentration from the 1920s, 1930s, and 1940s. You will also encounter examples from the 1900s, 1950s, and 1960s. Design styles shift from ornate early pieces to streamlined Art Deco forms and later mid-century modernism.

How do I clean silver plated barware?

Clean silver plate and electroplated nickel silver gently using a specialist metal polish and a soft cloth. Avoid harsh abrasives that can wear away the thin silver layer over the base metal. Ensure any cork or wooden components remain dry during cleaning to preserve their structural integrity.

How do I identify an Art Deco shaker?

Art Deco shakers typically feature geometric motifs, stepped lines, and engine-turned patterns that reflect the machinery and architecture of the interwar period. Cylindrical, bullet, and milk churn shapes are particularly common. Materials like chrome, Bakelite, and enamelled glass often accompany the silver-plated bodies.