Thursday, March 15, 2012

Stieff Pewter: The Williamsburg Restoration Pieces

The Art of the Pewterer reached its height during the seventeenth and eighteenth centuries. From the many fine examples of eighteenth century Pewterer's Work which are displayed in the Exhibition Buildings of Colonial Williamsburg, a number of outstanding pieces were been selected for reproduction. These Reproductions were manufactured by the skilled craftsmen of The Stieff Company and proudly bear the hallmark of Williamsburg Restoration, Incorporated. Pewter was in use throughout the American Colonies, and its use was by no means confined to the poorer classes. Records indicate that the aristocratic planters and even the royal governors made use of fine pewter pieces in their households. Fashionable taverns like the Raliegh prided themselves on their excellent pewter service.

The ATC Mark: ATC was the mark of the American Pewter Guild. The guild was founded in 1958. The ATC mark is to pewter what Sterling is to silver. Made of tin, antimony and copper, fine pewter contains NO LEAD. Pieces made prior to 1958 will not carry the ATC mark.
    A Beautiful Find is proud to present a collection of Williamsburg pieces by Stieff Pewter. The company was purchased by Lenox, and more recently by Department 56, and the association with Colonial Williamsburg has been severed. These pieces are no longer in production.

Pictured in order from the top are a pair of Chambersticks. each features a push-up mechanism to release the candle or old wax from the holder.
Looking like a big salt shaker, the Muffineer was used in colonial times to sprinkle powdered sugar on muffins and scones. It stands 7" tall.

To the right are a pair of salt bowls with salt spoons.

Of the 3 cups pictured, the larger is called a Jigger and the smaller are Cordial cups.

At left is a Porringer, for serving porridge.

Below that is a Sugar scoop.

The tall coffeepot is the only piece not marked Williamsburg. This pot carries the ATC mark mentioned above.

And finally, a beautiful 3 piece coffee/tea set with Rosewood handles.

You can click on the photos to enlarge for a closer look.
Be sure to visit the shop to view these classic pewter pieces in person.

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