ANTIQUE SILVER SUGAR CASTERS
Antique Silver sugar casters Description:
A small, normally cylindrical, holder for refined sugar, with a removable pierced lid.
Antique Silver sugar casters History:
Although refined sugar was invented as early as the middle of the 18th century, there are very few examples of silver sugar casters made before 1850. There are many examples of pepper casters, dredgers, and muffineers before this date but they were used to sprinkle pepper, salt, or dried mustard (see pepper pots). The vast majority were made in the 19th century and 20th century and they are still being made today.
Antique Silver sugar casters Design:
The vast majority were basically cylindrical, but many were panelled, and had waists, balusters, and collet or pedestal-footed bases. The design of the pierced lids varied from simple holes to very ornate work, topped with finials to help pull the lids off. The bodies were usually plain, but often had applied rims and borders. Some of the later Victorian ones were heavily chased
Antique Silver sugar casters Collectors Note:
The level of craftsmanship and their aesthetic qualities determine their value. But they must also be undamaged with good clear hallmarks, crisp detail, and well-fitting lids/hinges. The part hallmark on the lid should bear some relationship to the full hallmark on the body.