Peltro Cesellato Hammered Pewter Charger by Peltro Più
Hollowware (Charger / Decorative Platter / Tray) · Peltro Più (Italy). A renowned Italian pewter workshop known for traditional artisanal methods and high-purity alloys, established mid-20th century.
Pattern: Hammered (Cesellato) Pattern; part of their classic traditional line; currently in production.
Type
Hollowware (Charger / Decorative Platter / Tray)
Maker
Peltro Più (Italy). A renowned Italian pewter workshop known for traditional artisanal methods and high-purity alloys, established mid-20th century.
Material
Fine Pewter (95% Tin/Étain/Zinn). Lead-free composition made of roughly 95% tin, with small amounts of copper and antimony for hardening. This is NOT silver.
Dimensions
Estimated diameter 30-40cm (12-16 inches). Approximate weight 800-1200g. Heavier than silver plate but significantly lighter than solid sterling silver.
Description
A classic example of Italian artisanal pewter, this piece mimics the appearance of antique hammered silver but with the warmer, darker luster characteristic of high-quality tin. The surface features rhythmic hammer strikes that capture and diffuse light beautifully, making it a staple of rustic or modern European table settings.
Key Features
Distinctive double-P logo; '95%' purity mark; consistent hand-hammered texture across the reverse; non-reflective satin finish.
Material & Composition
Fine Pewter (95% Tin/Étain/Zinn). Lead-free composition made of roughly 95% tin, with small amounts of copper and antimony for hardening. This is NOT silver.
Finish & Decoration
Hand-hammered (cesellato) surface with a soft satin patina. The reverse shows planishing marks from the hammering process. Minimalist, artisanal aesthetic typical of mid-century Italian design.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Circular stamp featuring double 'P' logo with 'piu' inside; outer ring text: 'VERITABILE PEWTER - ZINN - TIN - PELTRO - ETAIN' and '95%'. Indicates high purity tin standard for food safety.
Construction Details
Hand-hammered from a flat sheet of cast pewter alloy. Finished with hand-applied texture; evidence of turning or spinning may be present on the rim.
Functional Features
Flat central well for serving or display; wide rim for handling. High tin content makes it suitable for serving cold foods (food safe).
Handle & Grip Details
None; integrated rim serves as the grip. Material is solid pewter throughout.
Craftsmanship Details
High-quality manual labor; the hammering is intentional and decorative rather than purely functional. Consistent wall thickness indicates skilled raising/spinning technique.
Authentication Indicators
The stamp explicitly identifies the material as 'Pewter/Etain/Zinn'. It is not a silver item. The '95%' refers to tin content, not silver fineness.
Origin & Manufacturing
Italy (Lombardy/Brescia region). Made in a traditional Italian workshop specializing in lead-free cast and hammered pewter wares.
Era & Period
Mid-Century to Contemporary (1960-Present). Heavily influenced by the Italian Arts & Crafts revival of the late 20th century.
Age Estimate
Circa 1980 - 2010 based on the crispness of the stamp and the specific 'Peltro Più' branding style.
Cultural Significance
Represents the Italian 'Peltro' tradition, which sought to keep old-world craftsmanship alive in the face of mass-produced stainless steel in the post-war era.
Condition Notes
Good to Very Good. Significant surface scratching and minor pitting (oxidation) visible. No structural cracks or deep dents, but shows 'honest wear' from use as a serving platter.
Value Estimate
$40 - $85 USD depending on size. Pewter does not hold the scrap value of silver, so value is strictly based on utility and decorative appeal.
Care & Maintenance
Wash with warm soapy water; dry immediately to prevent water spots. Do not use silver polish; use a dedicated pewter wash or simple flour/vinegar paste for deep cleaning. Never place in a dishwasher.
Similar Pieces
Cosi Tabellini pewter (similar price point/style); Match Pewter (higher end Italian pewter); Georg Jensen silver (stylistically similar but different material).
Interesting Facts
The 'Peltro Più' mark is often confused by novice collectors for a silver hallmark due to the quality of the craftsmanship and the '95%' stamp (which they mistake for 950 silver).