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#SilverWineFunnel #AntiqueFinds #GeorgianElegance #HistoricCollectibles #AuctionTreasures #WineAntiques #FineArtAuctions #19thCenturySilver #CollectibleAntiques #HansonsAuctioneers #VintageWineAccessories #DistinctPiece #SilverWineAntiques #SilverCollectibles #ElegantTreasures
An early 19th-century silver wine funnel, recently discovered in West Bridgford, Nottinghamshire, is set to go under the hammer at Hansons Auctioneers in Derbyshire, with an estimated value of £200-300. The unique object, found tucked away at the back of a cupboard, reflects both practical utility and historical charm, offering a glimpse into the sophistication of Georgian dining practices.
Charles Hanson, the auctioneer who identified the piece, explained that silver wine funnels first emerged in the late 17th century during the reign of Charles II. Their primary purpose was to decant wine at the table, a necessity at the time due to the sediment commonly found in bottled wine. Early examples were simple in design, but by the mid-18th century, they had evolved into more complex, two-part pieces. The upper bowl featured pierced holes to catch cork and debris, while the detachable lower section, often fitted with muslin, filtered finer sediment. The curved spout allowed wine to flow gently down the side of a decanter or glass, preventing aeration, which could spoil the wine’s character.
The funnel in question, dating to 1808, is a fine example of this evolution. It bears classic beaded ‘Egg and Dart’ rim detailing and crisp hallmarks from London during the reign of King George III. Despite showing signs of age and use, the piece retains its elegance and historical significance. Hanson noted that the client, who wishes to remain anonymous, was pleasantly surprised by the discovery, having initially been unsure of the object’s original function.
The wine funnel’s historical context adds to its allure. As Hanson pointed out, it was in use just three years after Lord Nelson’s death at the Battle of Trafalgar and predates the Battle of Waterloo by seven years. It also precedes Queen Victoria’s reign by nearly three decades, offering a tangible connection to the Georgian era. Such objects were essential dining accessories in the 18th and early 19th centuries, symbolizing refinement and sophistication during formal meals.
Silver items from this period, including wine funnels, are increasingly sought after at auction. Collectors and enthusiasts are drawn to their craftsmanship, historical significance, and potential for practical use. Georgian and Victorian silverware, from fish knives to tea sets, continues to captivate buyers, blending aesthetic appeal with functional elegance.
The silver wine funnel will be featured in Hansons Auctioneers’ Summer Fine Art Auction this June, with an estimated sale price of £200-300. Its discovery underscores the enduring appeal of antique silverware and the stories these objects carry. As Hanson remarked, holding such a piece is a reminder of its role in history, serving as a bridge between the past and present. Whether as a collector’s item or a decorative artifact, this wine funnel represents a bygone era of dining culture and craftsmanship.
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