Recently discovered tucked away at the back of a cupboard, a curious silver object has been identified by auctioneer Charles Hanson as a wine funnel – a once-common household item with both practical use and historic charm.
“Silver wine funnels,” explained Charles Hanson, “emerged at the end of the 17th century, during the reign of Charles II. They were designed to decant wine at the table, a necessity at the time due to the prevalence of sediment in bottled wine.”
While the earliest examples were quite plain, by the mid-18th century, wine funnels had evolved into two-part pieces. The upper bowl featured pierced holes to catch cork and debris, while a detachable lower section, often fitted with muslin, filtered out finer sediment. The spout, or spiggot, was cleverly curved to allow the wine to gently run down the side of a decanter or glass, avoiding aeration – something which could spoil the wine’s character. Over time, these pieces became larger and more decorative. The example recently brought to Hansons Auctioneers features a classic beaded ‘Egg and Dart’ rim. Despite signs of use, the hallmarks remain crisp and clear, dating it to London in 1808, during the reign of King George III.
Charles Hanson remarked that the client – who wishes to remain anonymous – was pleasantly surprised by the discovery, having not been entirely certain what the object was originally used for. “Wine funnels were elegant and essential dining accessories in the 18th and early 19th centuries,” Charles noted. “They were a mark of refinement and sophistication, used during formal meals to ensure wine was served at its best.”
“It’s quite something to think this very funnel was being used just three years after Lord Nelson’s death at the Battle of Trafalgar,” added Mr Hanson. “It predates the Battle of Waterloo by seven years and Queen Victoria’s reign by nearly three decades.”
Objects like this, rich in history and craftsmanship, are increasingly popular at auction. Silver items from the Georgian and Victorian eras – from fish knives to wine funnels – appeal to both collectors and those with an eye for elegant, usable antiques.
This funnel is estimated to fetch between £200 and £300 in Hansons Auctioneers’ forthcoming Summer Fine Art Auction, taking place this June.
You’re also welcome to visit the Derby saleroom to consign your treasures for inclusion in the Summer Fine Art Auction.
For further information or to book a FREE home visit, please contact: Charles Hanson | [email protected]
Auction Information
Auction: Hansons Derbyshire Fine Art, Iconic Design Incorporating decorative & contemporary arts
Auction date: 12th – 13th June | 9.30am
Location: Hansons Derbyshire Saleroom
Auction contact: [email protected]
Catalogue/bidding: www.hansonslive.co.uk | www.the-saleroom.com
