Pewter Plate
Description
Circular plate with broad arrow and inscription (not legible). This circular plate is made of pewter, a perishable alloy known as ‘poor man’s silver.’ This pewter plate is likely to have been used by the officers, purchased on shore; most of the seamen would have wood, either purchased from the purser or made by the owner. The officers ate separately from the crew and, whilst sharing the same rations, could have afforded to bring on board extra food and flavourings. In use aboard the HMS Invincible, it would have been kept brightly polished for use by the officers. This service starkly contrasted with the crude utensils used by common sailors. The wardroom might have had two sets of tableware: good glasses and porcelain for Sundays and visitors – tumblers and pewter or earthenware crockery for other days. The better quality table settings would be kept in the storeroom and returned to it after each meal, to avoid disappearances.
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Object Detail
Depth: 5mm (3/16")