Barware is the collective name for objects used in preparing and serving drinks, including decanters, cocktail shakers, ice buckets, jugs, glasses, measures, strainers, corkscrews, bottle labels, coasters and trays. It is made in glass, silver, silver plate, chrome and other materials.
Georgian and Victorian households produced much of what collectors now prize, such as cut-glass decanters, silver wine labels, wine funnels, coasters and tantaluses. The cocktail age of the 1920s and 1930s brought a new generation of barware, with chrome, silver-plated and glass shakers, novelty designs, cocktail glasses and soda siphons, often in strong Art Deco shapes. Post-war designers continued the tradition with stylish ice buckets and glass sets. Collectors look for quality of material and finish, hallmarks or makers' names on metalwork, unchipped rims and stoppers that belong to their decanters. Silver and plate should be checked for wear to the plating and for repairs. Antique and vintage barware is enjoyable to use as well as to display, and a well-chosen group on a tray or drinks table adds character and a sense of occasion to any room.
