19th C. Old Sheffield Plate (OSP) Fused Silver Wine Funnel, c. 1840

Description

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Antiques
& Moore!
This listing is for a lovely early 19th Century English Old Sheffield Plate (OSP) wine funnel, c. 1830.  This wine funnel is made of fused silver over copper with chased decorated border. These funnels were
designed to filter sediment from good wine, and to assist in decanting a bottle of wine by directing the flow against the side of the decanter, thus preventing bruising, or excess air. It consists of a basin with a large number of holes to sieve large impurities and a spout with a curve at the mouth.
Measures 5" high and 3 3/4" in diameter at top opening. Weighs 95 grams.
Old
Sheffield Plate is a process invented in 1742 where a sheet of sterling silver was fused onto a sheet of copper and then crafted by hand into almost any type item that had been previously made of solid silver. There was no requirement to mark "OSP" so most pieces are dated by style and the way they are made (which can fairly accurately date the piece within 5-10 years either way).  Some of the silversmiths who worked with this silver process used assorted trademark stamps, however, most OSP ware is unmarked. The Industrial Revolution with the invention of electricity and other forms of mechanical items caused the demise of this industry. In the 1840's the growth of electroplating began (known as silver plate today) and replaced this expensive and timely process.
We at
Antiques & Moore
have been in the Antiques business for over 30 years and try to describe our items as accurately as possible.  Although all sales are considered final, if there is an error in our description or a problem with our item, we will issue a full refund of the purchase price if contacted within 3 days after receipt of item, however, please note that we can not refund shipping charges.  We are happy to answer any questions and always appreciate your business!