Notes: American Arts & Crafts copper clad cider set, made by Clewell & Co, Canton, Ohio, circa early 20th Century. These were sold as Lemonade and Cider Sets; they can, of course, be used to serve most anything.
Dimensions (pitcher): 9 ¼” high x 6 ⅜” wide
Dimensions (mugs): 4 ½” high x 5” wide
Markings: each is marked on the base, “CLEWELL” / “CANTON” / “OHIO”
Notes: The copper cladding, here riveted, is the great achievement of George Clewell the founder of the pottery. A metalworker by trade Clewell developed a process shrouded in mystery in which copper could be plated over ceramics. As shown in this example the result was a form built of materials suited to the function of drinking cider with the additional overtones of historic materials and contemporary aesthetic obsessions. The metal is stabilized at the desired point of oxidation creating the “perfect” patina. The interior is unclad ceramic and covered with a glossy white glaze.
Condition: Very Good Vintage Condition. For accuracy: the pitcher has a golden tone, it appears original; there is a minor split or two in the pitcher’s copper, which is fairly common; and one mug has a tight crack in the internal ceramic, the exterior not being affected it retains its integrity. Overall it is a very nice set.
