3-008-961 - The Print Collector/Heritage Images

The International Exhibition: mediaeval claret-jug by Messrs. Hardman and Co., of King-William-street, Strand, 1862. 'We this week engrave...a claret-jug of very rich appearance, of silver partly gilt and entirely of hammered work and engraving, no part being machine-stamped. The ornament of plants runs up to a flower, the centre of which bears a carbuncle, the rich glow of the gem corresponding very well with the giltwork, and which will also have a very good effect when the jug be on the table contrasted with other vessels of glass, or frosted or polished silver. On the cover is also a cluster of carbuncles. Our readers will perceive that the shape is purely mediaeval; and, although our Engraving cannot give any adequate idea of the richness of colour produced by the jewels and giltwork, yet it will sufficiently portray the beautiful form of the jug. The design of this, as well as of all other articles exhibited by Messrs. Hardman, is by Mr. J. H. Powell, who is evidently a master of that peculiar class of design even in its minutest details. His designs are worked out under his immediate superintendence'. From "Illustrated London News", 1862.