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Hinged-handled Toaster, 18th/19th Century

The style and design of early wrought iron toasters reflect the needs of the day. In colonial times, the size of baked goods and bread varied widely based on custom, experience and appetite. A large slice of bread, perhaps serving as the entire meal, could easily be accommodated in this early toaster design. The hinged handle allowed the baker to add warmth and crispness to both sides of the bread. And because fine iron implements were made to be both decorative and utilitarian, the long handle on this example terminates in a skillfully wrought heart design.

Wrought Iron Skewer Set, 19th Century

Wrought iron skewer set, with holder and 6 skewers. Skewers were used in colonial times to hold meat to the spit as it was being cooked over the hearth fire. Good examples are quite rare. Each of these skewers terminates in a scroll. Provenance: Abraham and May, 1957; Dr. and Mrs. Donald Shelley Collection, 2007.

Rare, Diminutive Hearth Toaster, 18th Century

Forged iron hearth toaster, small in size, perhaps made for a child to use. Found in Maine. 10 1/2" wide. Scrolled feet. Ex-Weston collection. Price: $2,400.

Pair of Petal Base Candlesticks, English, 18th Century

A lovely pair of seamed English brass candlesticks. They stand 8 3/8” tall. Fine condition. Price: $1,400.

Pewter Porringer, American, 18th Century

A flowered-handled American pewter porringer made by Samuel Hamlin of Hartford and Middletown, Connecticut and Providence, Rhode Island (1767-1801). The handle bears the Hamlin eagle touchmark. The bowl diameter is 4 1/2 inches. Price: $1,395.

A Rare, Diminutive Pewter Porringer, American, 18th Century

A 3 1/2 inch pewter porringer with "flowered" handle, most likely made by William Billings of Providence, Rhode Island (1791-1806). Price: $750.

American Pewter Teapot, Westbrook, Maine, Mid 19th Century

A signed American pewter teapot of elegant form, by Rufus Dunham (1837-1860). Price: $295.

Bell Metal Candle Holder, English

Early candle holders such as this one were imported into the colonies from England, starting in the 17th century. Raised circular base, concave drip pan and turned shaft. Height: 8 1/2 inches. Bell metal is an alloy of tin and copper also used in making bells. From an estate in Wilton, CT. Price: $820.

18th Century Wrought Iron Swivel Toaster

Early fireplace and kitchen equipment was often utilitarian in form. This more elaborate example clearly displays the maker's individuality and sophistication. This hearth toaster features four lateral "trees" beneath twisted arches, and two tall central "trees". Elegant scrolled feet. Undulating handle terminates in a ring for hanging. Found in a New Hampshire home. $950.

Silvermine Antiques - New Canaan, CT

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