Lot #46: Antique Victorian Double-Walled Silver-Plated Ice Water Pitcher – Dated Inscription 1863

For auction is an authentic, highly decorative Victorian silver-plated double-walled ice water pitcher. This substantial piece exemplifies the ornate design sensibilities of the mid-19th century Aesthetic Movement, featuring deeply engraved guilloché and floral panel overlays, a beautifully flared pedestal foot, and an intricately scrolled figural handle. The front of the pitcher features a prominent, beautifully framed cartouche featuring a hand-engraved inscription dated "Dec. 25th 1863," indicating it was likely commissioned as a significant Christmas or celebratory presentation gift during the American Civil War era. Approximate Height: 13.5 inches to the top of the finial.Material: Heavy silver-plated base metal (Britannia metal or nickel silver).Design Elements: Ornate geometric and floral engraving, scrolling handle with decorative thumb rest, leaf-patterned spout, and a detailed tiered lid finial.Special Internal Construction: Double-walled insulated core. ***Lid: The hinged lid is completely detached from the handle mount. The original hinge pin is missing or broken.Base/Bottom: The inner bottom liner has sustained severe corrosion and damage, resulting in a large puncture/hole completely through the bottom floor of the pitcher's interior vessel.Surface/Finish: Heavy natural patina and tarnish throughout. Visible areas of plating wear ("bleeding"), where the base metal is exposed, particularly around high-friction areas, the handle, and the interior rim.Sold strictly As-Is as a restoration project, historical artifact, or purely decorative statement piece. Double-walled ice pitchers were highly coveted luxury items in the mid-to-late 19th century. First patented by James H. Stimpson in 1854, this innovative insulation technology allowed households to keep lake-harvested ice solid and water cold for long periods. Prominent manufacturers of this specific style included the Meriden Britannia Company, Reed & Barton, and Rogers Brothers. The inclusion of a definitive 1863 date makes it a highly desirable document of period craftsmanship, ideal for Civil War-era collectors or antique silver enthusiasts. PICKUP NOTE: Access Storage - ample parking. Do not go to the front office - Please come to loading dock ramps and see our team member with your lot numbers/ invoice. Pickup category timeslot {B}