Antique buying Silver Jug Creamer in 18th C Form

This elegant antique Victorian silver jug was made in the late 19th C but copies the form of an 18th C jug. Fused plated silver was made in 18th C England by 'fusing' a layer of sterling silver to a layer of copper. The silversmith would then shape the 2 layers into a form that was wanted. Because the 2 layers of metals would be visible at the edges of any piece, a band of beading was attached to the edges as can be seen in this piece. This jug was probably made about 1870 rather than 1760 because of the mark on buying the base. Marks like this one were not introduced until Victorian times. The jug has an beautiful 18th C form and the surface appears to be hand hammered. The handle is reeded and elegantly sweeps down the side of the jug. The pouring spout is exaggerated and gives the jug further appeal. It measures 6 inches to the top of the handle. A special piece of antique silver!