History and Usage
– Pewter was first used in the Near East during the Bronze Age.
– The earliest known piece of pewter was found in an Egyptian tomb around 1450 BC.
– Pewter was used by the Egyptians and Romans for decorative metal items and tableware.
– Pewter came into extensive use in Europe during the Middle Ages.
– The production of pottery and glass in the 18th and 19th centuries led to a decline in the use of pewter.
– Pewter artifacts continue to be produced, mainly as decorative or specialty items.
– Pewter alloys were often used as a base metal for silver-plated objects in the 19th century.
– Pewter came back into fashion in the late 19th century with the revival of medieval objects for decoration.
– Pewter is used in various decorative objects, collectible statuettes, figurines, and models.
– Pewter medals are awarded in certain athletic contests, such as the United States Figure Skating Championships.
Types and Composition
– In antiquity, pewter was tin alloyed with lead and sometimes copper.
– Older pewters with higher lead content are heavier and tarnish faster.
– Pewters containing lead are no longer used in items that come in contact with the human body.
– Modern pewters are available that are completely lead-free.
– Asian pewter contains a higher percentage of tin, making it slightly softer.
Properties
– Pewter can be manipulated through casting, hammering, turning, spinning, and engraving.
– Pewter is soft at room temperature, which affects the clarity of its sound.
– Cooling pewter in liquid nitrogen hardens it and enables it to ring, but also makes it more brittle.
Related Concepts
– Britannia metal
– English pewter
– Spin casting
– Solder
Notable Facts
– Pewter is used in various decorative objects, collectible statuettes, figurines, and models.
– Pewter medals are awarded in certain athletic contests, such as the United States Figure Skating Championships.Sources: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pewter
