Ornate newest Victorian Water/Coffee Jug

A really beautiful and classically Victorian tall jug, with hinged lid. This would have been used for hot water, or possibly coffee.

The shape is very unusual, being oval but with newest two 'ribs' on each side. There is a curled thumb piece for raising the lid which has a round dome. The spout is short but elegant and the base is flat.

The registration mark on the base dates the design to 1870, so it would have been made soon after that.

There are no maker's marks, but there is the letter 'A' indicating it was good quality silver plate, but not the very best. This would have been the pride of an ordinary household, looking to impress their guests. We love that. It's in good antique condition, so there is some lovely patina. There is some wear to the silver plate and a few minor dings, showing it has been used. The hinge is smooth and solid.

This is a really striking piece. It may clean up to be used for water, but we think it would be best as a decorative item, or a flower vase. Some people use old jugs for watering houseplants, too!

Weight - 562g/1lb 3.8oz
Max Width at Base -
Max Length at Base -
Spout to Handle -
Max Height -



"Have nothing in your houses you do not know to be useful or believe to be beautiful"

William Morris


At Know to be Beautiful, we believe that beautiful things warm the heart and make a house a home. And the world is full of beautiful things!

Over the decades artists and craftsmen have used our limited natural resources to make wonderful items. Once something has been loved and used it often makes it more beautiful, so, rather than always making new things, we like finding a new home for something that has already been made.

We aim for elegant packaging, to make classy gifts, but we try not to go over the top with plush boxes that are too good to throw away, but of no actual use!