"Etain" is the French term for the white metal popular for all but the most formal events, which then might use a more luxurious silver plate or sterling silver. These old ones were sometimes silver plated, but usually that thinner plating would wear off over centuries. The one you see here, a fabulous kitchen decorative one, or one you can put to use, is from the 1st Empire era, Napoleon - c.1800-1820. It has the old maker marks on bottom (shown for your research fun) and is from my own collection of this type of French kitchen ware and dining table items. Authentic and charming, they're never perfect. This white metal is not spelter. It has the look of Pewter, and I feel certain it has at least some pewter in the alloy, though is stronger than pewter and not cast as heavily. It is somewhat pliable though. I've noted that if a pot has a slightly out of round top, for instance, it's been relatively simple to push back into round without tools. This one has its original old wooden handle, which is showing a great deal of age, but has no breaks, no chips or restorations.

Very good condition for age and type. The hinged cap remains fully functioning and hinge is strong. The old metal isn't dented, and it shows lovely age. Some alterations in finish, I think owing to what was likely a thinner silver plating that has worn off. The handle is carved of wood, shows a great deal of age, has no breaks nor restorations. Stands steady on surface and is very well balanced by design. A fabulous French Country decor piece, or one to be used, too. Measurements are noted directly on our photos. It is 11.75" tall overall, quite large as these old ones go. Heavy, it's ab out 4 lbs for shipping weight.

Return Policy:
We always honor a 3-day return on our items, and guarantee them to be as described. Money back, less shipping costs, which are not refundable, so ask questions if necessary. We're easy to deal with.

Shipping and Handling Policy:

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Insurance has been eliminated as an option by ebay, forcing us sellers to either ship your items without insurance or assume that expense also. We always insure our items BUT, more importantly, pack them extremely well knowing that most are not replaceable. Again, damage in transit, while rare in our experience, is due to the postal agency handling and not caused by Antiques & Uncommon Treasure. Please remember that when leaving DSR ratings. Thanks!

Our shipping days are Tuesday and Friday, paid items will be shipped on the first shipping day after payment is received (except when special circumstances exist). We prefer to use USPS whenever possible, and require all packages to be insured. If you prefer another method of shipment, please mention it. We charge only actual expense of shipment/insurance, except in the case of larger items which must have special wood crates built. Wood crate charge, when applicable, is a flat $35.00 in addition to actual postage & insurance charges.

Other Information:
8.75% sales tax applicable as of April 1st, 2009 for shipments & sales within the state of California, no exceptions. If you are within CA and are a dealer buying for resale, you must provide us your active resale certificate # and acknowledgment of intent to resell or we will have to collect sales tax. No exceptions.

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