Heavy Metal

The Warner House will be open Thursday through Sunday from May 26 until October 16 2022 from 11 AM - 4 PM.

Heavy Metal

Copper alloy caudle cup, English, ca. 1680

A special exhibit entitled Heavy Metal at the Warner House- Base Metal Ware in America 1550-1850 will be on view May 26 th - October 16 th , 2022 at the Warner House. The exhibit will feature objects of pewter, iron, copper and copper alloys (bronze, brass, Paktong).

Pewter is represented by a number of marked 18 th century American pieces, including John and Frederick Bassett, Henry Will, Samuel Green, Thomas Danforth II, Cornelius Bradford, Amos Treadway, and more, as well as, pieces attributed to 17 th century pewterers, John Baker and Edmond Dolbeare. A number of early English pieces are included. Pewter was the common dinner ware of choice in the 17 th and 18 th centuries, but is rarely given its due in most museums, as opposed to ceramics which are overwhelmingly on display. A pewter dinner setting for 8 is meant to help right the wrong.

Copper alloy is a term utilized to include early bronze and brass, as prior to the 19 th century there was wide variation in their compositions, and without chemical analysis it is difficult to differentiate the two. Stretching our time-lime a bit, this grouping will include the development of the candlestick in Europe, England and America from Near Eastern origins of the 1400s through 1850. Another interesting grouping is a collection of engraved tobacco boxes, mostly 18th century English or Dutch in origin.

The last large category, while mundane, is perhaps the most fun- forged iron. Largely
utilitarian tools, they can be quite sculptural with entirely non-functional decorative detail.

Some objects are from the permanent Warner House collection, including family pieces. Most are on loan from several New England private collections and this is a unique opportunity to view these rare fun and fascinating objects.

Heavy Metal Happening Event on May 28th, Join Us!