Description
A collection of antique Continental pewter tankards and flagons. A tankard is a tall mug with hinged lid, usually cylindrical or bulbous. A flagon is a similarly shaped pitcher with handle, spout, and hinged lid. Nonetheless, the terms are fairly loosely used, so the difference between tankard, mug, flagon, and pitcher generally is not absolute.
As a collection, they exhibit a range of decorative possibilities — in this case vessels with handles and lids (and the flagons with spouts), characterized by clean silhouettes, employing various shapes and decorations. The incised or raised decoration varies, including classical, geometric, and nature motifs, and inscriptions. One has an eagle-form finial or knop. Another has an arm and hand supporting the spout. They are variously impressed with maker’s marks (some elaborately designed) and initials.
Pewter, an alloy of tin with other metals, was widely used in the 18th century; though not cheap, it was more affordable than silver. While most of the tankards and flagons shown here are undated, they probably were made in Germany and Eastern Europe between in the 18th Century through the early 19th Century, after which the popularity of pewter waned in favor of crockery and other materials.
Condition: Generally very good with the usual overall wear and scratches. Some with minor dents, repairs, etc. Please inquire for more detailed condition report for specific examples.
