c. 1889 TILTING PITCHER WATER SET by Meriden Quadruple Silver Plate Co.

Description

A NICE VICTORIAN TIPPING ICE-WATER PITCHER... with great character AND some bruises.
DISPLAYS NICELY despite flaws.
We understand that these were common wedding presents.
A COMMANDING SHOWPIECE. It comes with a two-piece drinking cup that was for either mixing, or cooling something from below, and a round, silver-plated catch-plate in the base, beneath the pitcher. (shown in sales pics from back-when).
It's showing its age and use a little and has been priced to reflect a "less-than perfect condition" with some jams in the lid near its hinge from use or a tumble.  2-3 jams on left side from being tipped from a table or maybe rough handling during a household move at some time in it's past
However, we're excited to have one of these 'kinda rare' pieces to offer here for sale. (our FIRST!)
Heavy double-walled construction to keep 'ice water' cool for after noon refreshments. in a Victorian parlor or on the veranda.
Nicely molded art on the support arms, depicting a studious cherub and a wonderful fish on each side,,,which are almost 3-D and can be viewed 'inside' the frame when the pitcher is removed. There is great detail in casting and engraving throughout. But shows wear from age.
Check pictures carefully please... we are selling this as a 130+ year-old: DISPLAY ARTIFACT - AS IS and NOT as a newly made and blemish-free, and recently crafted item.
We tried to capture the roughness and chipping around the bottom of the standard as it was maybe stored in an old cellar or someplace damp...?
Some plating has worn away around the base beneath the pitcher though that is covered by (and was maybe worn away by) the round engraved catch-plate that would have protected Victorian furniture from condensation and drips... a nice addition of the time.
It comes with a 'well-worn WILCOX' silver-plated mug (that doesn't have much silver left after years and years of washing) that has a unique insert, maybe to cool a mint-julep without diluting it.... (just guessing...lol)
The pitcher cradles and tips effortlessly (which was important for such a heavy water-cooler from its day.
We simply wiped it down to remove dust, someone has tried to polish it in the past…It definitely needs a cleaning.
PLEASE REMEMBER: We ARE NOT pricing this piece in the 0-0 range, due to its condition...It still makes for a stunning display and a great conversation starter.
This piece is quite heavy but we will endeavor to pack and ship (with eBay discounts) as reasonably as possible. So PLEASE wait until we can get it packed and send you an invoice before you pay.
Thanks for checking out our auction. A&J