Bottle Capacity Measure, Pewter, Only Pint Size Known

Rare pint capacity pewter bottle measure [for wine], which in this size is possibly a unique survivor. Contrary to previous wisdom, these vessels were not created to serve as bottle drainers. They were used as a bottle measure to detect the capacity of glass wine bottles in the days before they could be made accurately, which did not occur until the second quarter of the 19th century. This is the smallest example recorded having a maximum capacity of 1 pint.

This measure is very substantially made of pewter, and although it appears to have the body of a baluster measure, the construction does not utilize a normal body, but was hand made for the specific purpose. The series of four "steps" inside the neck give the approximate capacities of the bottles being measured.

Date: 1800-1830

Measurement: Capacity: 1 pint; height: 7.5"; diameter: 3.25"

Material: Pewter

Condition: In very good condition, with medium-light grey original surface patina.

Reference: See "The Journal of the Pewter Society" Autumn 2001 & Spring 2015.

$885

SKU: 365-393

For More Information, Please Contact David Hillier at 978-597-8084 or email drh@aaawt.com.

Please click on images to expand.