October 1, 2016
In this month’s newsletter we wanted to highlight a couple of our recently acquired items, all of which you can see on our website at http://irongateantiques.com/recent-acquisitions/. One is a silver-plated castor set and the other is a pickle jar with a hinged lid; both date from the late 1800’s when they were common accessories on dinner tables. Castor sets to hold just salt and pepper began to be used as far back as the 17th century, with the expansion to include bottles for oil, vinegar and other condiments coming into use in the 18th century. By World War I, the use of castor sets went out of favor. Quiz Question: What is the bottle with the metal top in the front right of the photo below called? See answer at bottom of page.
The pickle jar shown above is a typical example in that there is an ornate metal frame for the enclosed glass container. The handle includes a hook for a pair of tongs, which are on the right side of the photo; sometimes you’ll see pickle jars with forks rather than tongs. Pickle jars became ever fancier beginning in about 1860 until they peaked in about 1890. This piece is special as it has a hinged lid.
Please note that we will be closed on Sat., Oct. 8th, but open on Mon., Oct. 10th (Columbus Day). Check out the Fall Festival on the 8th on Route 9 near the intersection with 287 at http://www.joshuashands.org/Fall_Festival.html. Like the Waterford Fair happening the same weekend, this event focuses on traditional crafts like quilting and caning chairs, but unlike Waterford is completely FREE. There is lots of entertainment and you can even eat for free. Hope to see you there!
Lynne & Bob McCann
Answer to Quiz Question: It’s a spice dredger, used for containing and shaking spices. Who knew?