Antique Barbour Silver Plated Pickle Castor Jar & Tongs EAPG Fostoria Glass #183

Description

A stunning Barbour Silver Co. quadruple silver-plated
pickle castor with original tong set and a rare EAPG insert,
circa 1890's.
The interior glass jar for this pickle castor was manufactured
by world-renowned EAPG manufacturer, Fostoria Glass Co.,
in its sought-after Pattern No. 183, Victoria.  One of the only
known examples of this glass jar insert, this Victorian Era
piece is featured on the Early American Pattern Glass
Society's website and online database.  This handmade
glass insert possesses stunning filigree scrolls and circles.
The glass is in pristine condition with no signs of use or wear.
The un-lidded, Fostoria jar measures approximately 4.75"H,
and has a 3" base diameter.
The figural metal frame, lid with finial, and tongs are quadruple
silver-plated by Barbour Silver Co. and marked as Model No.
2309.  Barbour Silver was established in 1892—a little over a
decade after the Barbour brothers first went into business
together.  This high-end, silversmithing firm created fine
hollowware of both the silver-plated and sterling varieties.
Its specialties were the production of engraved or chased
pieces, the bases thereof being nickel silver.  So well-known
for its plated pieces was Barbour that it incorporated the
phrase “quadruple plate” into several of its maker’s marks,
including the mark on the underside of this Victorian Era pickle
castor.
The metal frame is decorated with a charming floral motif
that extends to the original tongs.  The bottom of the frame is
embossed with a floral pattern interlaced by leaves.  The top of
the handle is accented with a rounded row of reticulated tulips
that culminate in a flower framed by a circle, at center.  A silver
plated pickle or cucumber also extends from the frame, and
serves as a visually striking, ornamental hook for the tongs.
Stamped on the underside: "BARBOUR SILVER CO.
QUADRUPLE SILVER."
Overall excellent, preowned condition with minimal finish
losses to the silver plate (please see photographs);
light patina is present.  Measures approximately 10.5"H
by 5"W (widest point); the tongs are approximately 6"L.
I did not attempt to polish this piece, and it could benefit from
a thorough cleaning.
Do not pass up your opportunity to add this sought-after
pickle castor to your Victorian Era serving ware or
silver plate collection.
Please reach out with any questions or reasonable offers.