Vintage Silver Flask

Date: 1924

Maker: James Dixon

Country: England

Stock Number: 8192

Description

A smart plain styled sterling silver drinking flask with removable drinking cup. Dainty size. The top has a swivel and lock safety mechanism. The drinking cup has the original gilt interior. Engraved to the front with a gothic initial "C". Weight 129 grams, 4.1 troy ounces. Height 10.5 cms. Contains 70 ml. Sheffield 1924. Maker James Dixon & Sons.

Biography

James Dixon

James Dixon of Sheffield founded this family business in 1806 which became one of the major British manufacturers of Silverware, Electroplated nickel silver, Electroplated Britannia metal and Pewterware during the 19th century. They were also a world leader in manufacturing shooting accessories through nineteenth century and exported powder flasks in large quantities to America, They were also known as whistle makers. Their first workshops were located at Silver Street (1806), Cornish Place (1824) Sheffield . Their registered trade mark since 1879 was a Trumpet with a Banner hanging from it. Although registered in 1879, their distinctive "Trumpet with Banner" logo was used at times before registration and appears on some of their silver plate pieces. The firm exhibited at the Great Exhibition in 1851, being awarded several prizes in different classes for silver and Britannia metal. Dixon's costing book of 1879 includes designs by Christopher Dresser, registered from 1880, and these were produced until at least 1885, according to the trade catalogue issued in that year. In 1920 the firm became a limited liability company and in 1930 they acquired the Sheffield firm of William Hutton & Sons Ltd. In the 1980s the firm had a financial collapse and the production in Cornish Place closed in 1992.

Condition

This useful hip flask is in excellent condition with no damage or restoration. The swivel cap works well. The flask does not leak. The silver marks to the body and cup are clear.

Please note that this item is not new and will show moderate signs of wear commensurate with age. Reflections in the photograph may detract from the true representation of this item.