What is a decanter label?

A decanter label is a small tag suspended by a chain around the neck of a bottle or decanter to identify the beverage inside. They were commonly produced in silver or silver plate during the Georgian and Victorian periods. These labels name specific drinks like port, sherry, claret or Madeira. They served a practical purpose at formal dinners when decanters looked identical.

How were wine coasters used?

Wine coasters protected polished mahogany dining tables from drips and rings left by wine bottles. Dinners often involved passing the bottle around the table within these small wheeled or stationary trays. The base usually consisted of felt-lined wood beneath a metal gallery, allowing the coaster to slide smoothly across the surface.

How do I identify periods?

Period identification relies on assay marks on silver, styles of glassware cutting, and furniture construction techniques. Georgian pieces display distinct hand-tooling and classical proportions, while Victorian items often feature heavier ornamentation. Comparing hallmarks against official registers provides exact dates for silver mounts, coasters and labels.