This pickle castor is both gorgeous and unique, with a bird motif and incredible overall detail. The finial on the jar is a bird (most likely a phoenix), there are two additional birds on the handle area at the top, and the tongs are bird claw foot. The bottom has an overall floral pattern. The jar has a frosted/etched upper area which is covered with leaves and flowers, so the overall effect of the castor is that of birds in a garden. A wonderful addition for a collector, or to add a touch of antique Victorian elegance to your dining service.
Pickle castors are more practical than one might think. The clear ones especially are great for other food items (olives, nuts, candy, etc), and to add something extra for holidays. Think Valentines conversation hearts candy, Easter jelly beans or candy eggs, or old fashioned Christmas ribbon candy. Or for decorating, float a rose in the jar, add potpourri, small ornaments, fairy lights, and so on. You can also change out the tongs for a spoon or fork, depending on the occasion. :)
The castor dates between 1881 and 1893, when the Hartford Silver Co operated. It had a relatively short life span under that name. In 1893 it was absorbed by the Barbour Silver Co, which subsequently became the International Silver Co in 1898. The tongs were made by Fairpoint, who operated between 1880 and 1900 out of New Bedford, MA. I am imagining Hartford had some sort of deal with Fairpoint to supply the silverware (tongs, spoons, etc as appropriate).
One note on using the set - the jar lid is original and fits well, but you do need to make sure you align an indented portion of the 'notches' that go around the edge to the two vertical bars on the carrier so that it sits right. :)
Measurements:
Frame - 11 3/4" high
Jar - 4 1/4" high without the lid, and 3 1/4" diameter at the rim
Tongs - 6 1/2" long
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