Old Sheffield Plate Wine Coaster

• Sheffield, circa 1790
• Dimensions: 5 1/2 inches diameter, 2 3/8 inches height

During the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries, the upper class became increasingly obsessed with the lifestyle and consumption of goods and wanted to display their taste as well as wealth. This idea of extravagance, as well as the addition of import and export duties created a massive influx of wine into Britain. This newfound appreciation for wine meant that it became normal to serve wine before, during and after formal dinner parties. Thus, the need for what they called a bottle slider – later became commonly known as the wine coaster – was created.

An elegant and very attractive late 18th century Old Sheffield Plate Wine Coaster. An intricate hand-pierced floral decoration with delicate craftmanship resonated throughout the body. It also has a lovely floral and shell border as well as a wood turned base. This late 18th century Old Sheffield Plate Wine Coaster is in pristine condition, has excellent patina and is suitable to hold either wine or champagne bottles as well as decanters.