Victorian Era 5-Bottle Revolving Cruet Set with Silver-Plated Pedestal Stand
Unbranded (Likely Meriden Britannia Co., Rogers Bros, or James W. Tufts) · Kitchenware & Appliances > Antiques & Collectibles
Era / Decade
Late 1800s (Victorian Era, approx. 1870-1890)
Material
Pressed Pattern Glass bottles with silver-plated base metal (likely Britannia metal or quadruple plate).
Condition
Fair to Good. Significant tarnish and oxidation on the silver plating; glass appears intact but requires deep cleaning. Stopper matching should be verified.
Demand Level
Niche. Highly sought after by Victorian decor enthusiasts and antique collectors, but slow-moving in general thrift markets.
Resale Value
Estimated Resale Value
$45.00 (low) - $75.00 (mid) - $120.00 (high if polished and glass is chip-free)
Estimated Retail Value
$150.00 - $250.00 (Historical inflation-adjusted original cost or high-end antique dealer price)
Comparable Sales
Similar unbranded 5-bottle sets in unpolished condition typically sell for $50-$85 on eBay. Signed pieces (e.g., Meriden) can exceed $150 if the silver is in excellent condition.
Description
An elegant Victorian-style revolving cruet set featuring a silver-plated pedestal stand with a decorative pierced lattice gallery and large ring handle. The set includes five pressed glass vessels: two shakers with metal lids and three cruets with faceted glass stoppers. The stand allows the bottles to rotate for easy access at the dining table.
Key Features
Antique Victorian appeal, functional revolving mechanism, complete 5-piece set (rare to find all bottles together), intricate lattice work on the stand.
Authenticity Indicators
High confidence. The construction of the ring handle, the weight of the cast metal, and the pressed glass pattern are consistent with 19th-century manufacturing. Check the bottom for hallmark stamps (scales, crowns, or 'Quadruple Plate').
Flaws to Note
Heavy tarnish and surface wear on the metal; possible 'pitting' in the silver plate. Glass may have 'flea bites' (tiny chips) around the rims or stoppers. Residue inside bottles.
Selling Guide
Where to Sell
Etsy (best for vintage/antique), eBay (broadest reach), or a local high-end antique mall. Facebook Marketplace is less ideal due to the specific collector nature.
Selling Tips
Do NOT over-polish if you aren't experienced; a light cleaning with mild soap and a soft cloth is best. Use keywords like 'Victorian', 'Cruet Set', 'Silver Plate', and 'Antique Dining'. Ship with extreme care using double-boxing to prevent glass breakage.