Selangor Pewter Merlion Bud Vase / Small Ewer
Decorative Object (Small Ewer/Bud Vase) · Royal Selangor (formerly Selangor Pewter). Founded by Yong Koon in 1885 in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. They are the world's largest pewter manufacturer, renowned for high-quality lead-free pewter.
Pattern: Merlion Souvenir Collection; features the Singapore Merlion emblem. Not a standard dinnerware pattern; part of regional tourism/commemorative goods.
Type
Decorative Object (Small Ewer/Bud Vase)
Maker
Royal Selangor (formerly Selangor Pewter). Founded by Yong Koon in 1885 in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. They are the world's largest pewter manufacturer, renowned for high-quality lead-free pewter.
Material
Pewter (Lead-free). Modern Selangor pewter typically consists of 92% to 97% tin, with small amounts of antimony and copper. Note: This is not silver, but a tin-based alloy meant to resemble the aesthetic of silver.
Dimensions
Estimated height: 6 to 8 inches (15-20 cm). Weight: Approximately 200-350 grams. It is a 'bud' sized decorative pitcher.
Description
This is a classic example of Malaysian pewter craft, designed as a commemorative souvenir for Singapore. It features a bulbous base transitioning into a slender, elongated neck capped with a contemporary slanted spout. The matte, brushed surface provides a sophisticated, non-reflective alternative to polished silver, highlighting the applied Merlion emblem which symbolizes the 'Lion City'.
Key Features
Applied Merlion crest; distinctive high-arched strap handle; elongated neck; satin pewter finish.
Material & Composition
Pewter (Lead-free). Modern Selangor pewter typically consists of 92% to 97% tin, with small amounts of antimony and copper. Note: This is not silver, but a tin-based alloy meant to resemble the aesthetic of silver.
Finish & Decoration
Satin/Brushed finish with an applied cast Merlion emblem (the mythical creature with a lion's head and fish's body) on the neck. The style is mid-century modern with a Middle Eastern/Asian ewer influence (Aftaba style).
Hallmarks & Stamps
Expected marks on the base: 'Selangor Pewter' or 'Royal Selangor' along with '97%' or 'Pewter'. Since 1992, they use the 'Royal Selangor' name. Older pieces just say 'Selangor Pewter'.
Construction Details
Spun body with a cast handle and neck. The base, belly, and neck are typically soldered together using pewter solder or epoxy in later models. The handle is a simple strip of thick pewter sheet.
Functional Features
Tapered pouring spout and narrow neck designed for holding a single flower stem or for purely decorative display. Not intended for heavy liquid service due to narrow orifice.
Handle & Grip Details
Simple strap handle, likely made of solid pewter, attached via soldering at the top of the spout rim and the shoulder of the base.
Craftsmanship Details
The piece demonstrates competent industrial craftsmanship, combining machine spinning for the body with hand-finishing for the satin texture. The solder joints are well-concealed, typical of Selangor's high quality-control standards.
Authentication Indicators
The form is a standard catalog item for Selangor Pewter from the late 20th century. Consistency in the satin finish and the specific casting of the Merlion are hallmark-specific to this brand.
Origin & Manufacturing
Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. Royal Selangor is the primary workshop, continuing the Chinese tin-smithing traditions brought to Malaysia in the 19th century.
Era & Period
Modern (Late 20th Century). Shows stylistic indicators of the 1970s-1990s souvenir trade in Southeast Asia.
Age Estimate
Circa 1975-1990. The 'Selangor Pewter' branding suggest it predates the 'Royal' warrant granted in 1992, though similar styles continued later.
Cultural Significance
Represents the growth of the Southeast Asian giftware industry and the heritage of tin mining in the Malay Peninsula which fueled the development of Kuala Lumpur.
Condition Notes
Good. Metal shows typical patina and minor surface scuffing characteristic of soft pewter. No significant dents visible in the body, which is important as pewter is prone to bending and impact damage. Grade: Very Good.
Value Estimate
$20 - $45 USD. Value is driven by sentimental or souvenir interest rather than metal content, as pewter has a low scrap value compared to sterling silver.
Care & Maintenance
Wash with warm soapy water and dry immediately. Pewter does not tarnish like silver, so it should never be cleaned with silver polish; use a soft cloth. Avoid dishwasher use and high heat which can melt the alloy.
Similar Pieces
Silver-plated ewers of similar shape (often lighter/shinier); Middle Eastern 'Dallah' coffee pots (more ornate); Sterling silver bud vases by Cartier or Tiffany (higher value, thinner walls).
Interesting Facts
The Merlion was designed by Alec Fraser-Brunner for the Singapore Tourism Board in 1964. Selangor Pewter produced thousands of these for tourists and corporate gifts during Singapore's economic expansion.