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Kingdom Commons

BRIEF HISTORY OF ENGLISH PEWTER

Among Britain's major exports, through the Middle Ages and Renaissance Period, were tin, copper, and lead. In 1384, the pewter craftsmen of London successfully petitioned the mayor for ordinances to protect the quality of the pewter alloy and to institute and enforce an apprenticeship program. King Edward IV granted a royal charter to the 'Worshipful Company of Pewterers' in 1473. The abundant raw materials, regulations controlling the quality of raw pewter, export restrictions on tin, and heavy export taxes on raw pewter, all combined to insure the fame and quality of English pewter.

This fame also led to false 'touchmarks' and imitations of English pewter. A 'touchmark' is a stamp on a piece of finished pewter containing the initials of the craftsmen or the name of the company that produced the pewter.

During the 15^th century, pewter was no longer a luxury item for use by kings, nobleman, and the clergy. It was commonly used in taverns and most homes for dishes, plates, bowls, cups, and utensils. The clergy favored it's use in chalices and candlestick holders.

Today, you can enjoy the same quality of English pewter favored by kings, each piece hand made in limited quantities at Crownson’s Pewterware, available from Kingdom Commons.