I recently acquired an important early 18th century wavy-end bronze spoon mold at auction. The mold is engraved with a royal portrait on the top and a fanciful scroll pattern on the underside of the bowl.
Initially I thought it was of Queen Anne, but I’ve been talking with several pewter scholars recently and the consensus is it’s probably not a portrait of Queen Anne, but rather an earlier portrait of William III. This is William III, of William & Mary fame. Wow! Mary died in 1694. The mold was most likely produced/made in Boston circa 1694-1702.
Only a handful of these kinds of molds exist today, so they are as scarce as the proverbial hen’s teeth. I am indeed fortunate to have landed this wonderful mold. The overall spoon length is 7.25″ —Finished spoons sell for $20. This makes for a great soup spoon!
This fine 18th century English Export Quart Tulip Mug by Robert Bush, Sr. of Bristol, circa 1780s. Robert Bush Sr. and Jr. were major exporters to the colonies and the overall quality of their work and metal is excellent. This mug is no exception. On the inside bottom, the touchmark is faint due to some surface etching. Otherwise, this piece is in fine, overall condition.
May’s raffle winner of our Butterfly Earrings was Roger Anderson, Washington State. What a nice gift for the lady in your life Roger!
For our June raffle gift, we’re offering our Turtle Earrings in honor of and solidarity with ocean creatures and wildlife that struggle in these turbulent times.
Anyone who registers in the box in the left-hand corner of the website receives periodic updates about our new products and promotions, and those names are among those we select from each month.
I am thrilled to announce the acquisition of an extremely rare and early 18th century bronze spoon mold which has engraving in the mold.
The top of the spoon mold is engraved with a royal portrait of Queen Anne circa 1704-1711 and the underside has a fanciful line and scroll pattern. Finished examples should be ready next month. Stay tuned!
This month, I’m offering a wonderful unmarked antique American 3 7/16″ porringer with Old English handle( circa 1800). The porringer has a strong linen mark and great turning marks on the underside of the bowl.
In very fine condition. A marvelous addition to any pewter collection. (click on thumbnail image to view details)
In this demonstration, Jon shows how the Colonial Midrib Spoon is made by pouring molten, lead-free pewter, into an antique (circa 1750) bronze spoon mold. The pewter, an alloy of 92% tin, 1% copper and 7% antimony, is heated to a temperature of 550 F, and then ladled into the antique mold. Those spoons which are imperfect castings are consigned to the pot, in the time-honored spirit of recycling, to be re-cast another day.
A good customer here in New Hampshire brought in this ultra modern looking glass several weeks ago and asked if I could reproduce it in pewter. He then told me that the model he was holding was an 18th century reproduction called a Shrub Glass. I was immediately hooked.
What’s a Shrub Glass you ask? It’s used for drinking the popular 18th century rum drink known as a Shrub. There are many Shrub recipes, but the rum version seems to have been the most favored. Look here for a recipe.
In any event, I think this design is great and the cup clearly can be used for a whole host of things including ice cream! Small size holds 5 fluid oz. and stands 4.25″ tall and the Large size holds 11 oz. and stands 5.5″ tall. Sure to be a popular item!
Very fine unmarked mid 19th century American Chalice attributed to the Boardmans, Hartford, CT. Almost all Boardman Chalices are unmarked. Note the wonderful turning lines on the underside of the foot! (see below) A nice addition to any pewter collection.
Joan Ebersold, a long-time customer, is our March raffle winner. I’ll be sending her a pair of our Maple Leaf Earrings to sweeten her day.
Each month, we select a winner of our monthly Gibson Pewter product. It’s the perfect time to get out in our gardens to dig and plant seeds, so we’re featuring our Watering Can Earrings in April.
Anyone who registers in the box in the left-hand corner of the website receives periodic updates about our new products and promotions, and those names are among those we select from each month.
My friend, and New Hampshire Furniture Master member, Bill Thomas of Williams Thomas Custom Furniture, found a new piece of white oak and turned a beautiful new chuck for my Wood Grain Nut Bowl.
I had no idea how hard it was to find a good, dry piece of white oak in these parts. The end result is great and the grain pattern inside the pewter bowl is super! Pick one out for yourself, or give it as a truly unique gift item at a very reasonable price.
This marked American sundial dates to the second half of the 18th century. The initials “I.I” are cast, not stamped on the surface. The actual maker has yet to be identified, but the piece was probably made in New England.
The three holes allow the sundial to be fastened to a window sill, or an outside post. This hard to find sundial is in fine overall condition.
Sometimes a small dent in a piece of pewter can be pushed down or ironed out with your thumb. Really! In fact, many of my wooden straightening tools are shaped like the human thumb in various sizes.
Before attempting to iron out a dent, clean the piece and submerge it in hot water for several minutes. Then dry the piece and hold it firmly while rubbing or ironing out the dent with your thumb. Take your time and move the metal slowly, as it is very pliant.
Each month, we select a winner of our monthly Gibson Pewter product. We’re featuring our Maple Leaf Earrings in March. One lucky winner will receive a pair in honor of the hundreds of sap buckets punctuating our New Hampshire landscape… it’s Maple Syrup season. The weather has been perfect – cool nights and warm days – for a big batch of sticky goodness.
Anyone who registers in the box in the right-hand corner of the
website receives periodic updates about our new products and
promotions, and those names are among those we select from each
month.
This month I am offering my first piece of antique pewter for sale on my website. I’ll try to add one or two pieces a month for your consideration.
This is a wonderful 19th century English Pint Mug marked Austen & Sons, Cork, Ireland. Note that they used the same handle as found on their Pint Haystack measure. 4 3/8″ tall. Great touchmark and turning lines. Fine overall condition.
To order any antique pewter, please call: (603) 464-3410
It’s been a long time in the planning stages, but I finally hunkered down and designed a modern-day sized coaster to match the base of larger mugs and other beverage holders. The Gibson Pewter version of Super Size Me!
Our Jumbo Coasters are almost 5″ in diameter and made from thick, heavy gauge pewter stock. They are rugged and ready to work. With an inside base diameter of 4″ (!), they can handle your biggest coffee mug or glass with ease. And these are nice and heavy. They won’t stick to the bottom of your glass the way other coasters often do.
The Centerpiece Bowl is a new addition to our product line. It is a real beauty. An original design and a contemporary form, it has a low flared rim with a distinctive beaded edge and an incised line on the inside bottom. At 12″ in diameter and 2″ in height, it truly is worthy of being a centerpiece.
You’ll also be amazed at the capacity of this vessel. Fill it with fruit, nuts, veggies, or even a low silk flower arrangement to bring cheer to your meals and get you through until the season of new buds arrives.
May Egner right here in Hillsboro, NH was the lucky winner of our January raffle and our delicate Small Heart Earrings. Just in time for Valentine’s Day, this is the season of love and a time for reaching out to those we care for near and far.
Each month, we select a winner of our monthly Gibson Pewter product. In February, we will pull a name to win a pair of our Four Leaf Clover Earrings. Whether lucky in love or not in February, you may borrow a bit of Irish luck in March.
Anyone who registers in the box in the right-hand corner of the website receives periodic updates about our new products and promotions, and those names are among those we select from each month.
One of my New Year’s resolutions was to learn to be a better cook. Actually, my wife, Camille, made that resolution for me. But it’s been great. In fact, I made my first leg of lamb for Christmas dinner and folks went back for seconds!
So what I’ve done is line my upper stovetop shelf with several of my Salt Bowls & Spoons and now use them for salt, pepper and other herbs and spices. Even though I’m a rookie cook, I now look like a pro… look out Julie & Julia!
Sincere Thanks for Your Support
I am beginning 2010 with feelings of profound gratitude to all of you who have supported and encouraged me in these hard economic times. I took a full week off from work after Christmas to be with my family, enjoying the season and taking short day trips around beautiful New Hampshire. I now feel a renewed enthusiasm for my craft.
Despite these hard times, I’m looking forward to expanding my business and adding new products this year. December sales were strong. In fact, the sales line for the last quarter of 2009 pointed upward!
Fran Latch of Intervale, NH was the lucky winner of our December raffle and Bell Ornament. Such a timely way to “ring in the new year” and add to an heirloom collection of ornaments to dress the holiday tree for years.
Each month, we select a winner of our monthly Gibson Pewter product. For January, we plan to gift a pair of our Small Heart Earrings. Love will soon be in the air.
Anyone who registers in the box in the right-hand corner of the website receives periodic updates about our new products and promotions, and those names are among those we select from each
month.
Jeff Rand, living right here in Hillsboro, won last month’s raffle prize of the Christmas Stocking Ornament. Just in time to hang on the tree for the current holiday season. The Stone Bridge Farm Bed & Breakfast always looks sharp, but outfitted in Gibson Pewter? Magnificent!
Each month, we select a winner of our monthly Gibson Pewter product. For December, we plan to gift a Christmas Bell ornament. Makes a good start to collecting all of our Hillsborough historic locations and seasonal ornaments.
Anyone who registers in the box in the left-hand corner of the website receives periodic updates about our new products and promotions, and those names are among those we select from each month.
I have two new product offerings in the works that are decidedly contemporary and original designs.
The Centerpiece Bowl is functional and beautiful. In fact, it may be the most beautiful piece I’ve ever created. Nearly 12″ in diameter with a distinctive beaded edge, it’s a low form bowl with a graceful shape that holds tons of fruit or anything you wish to feature as a centerpiece.
I’m also working on an oversize set of four coasters, aptly named, Jumbo Coasters. Nearly 5″ in diameter, these coasters can handle your biggest coffee mug or cup. And they’re heavy! No more sticky coasters.
Look for these new products in January 2010. Or call and place an order today! Call (603) 464-3410
Marcia Ullman won a pair of our Ladybug Earrings in October. I guess ladybugs do contribute to good luck!
Each month, we select a winner of our monthly gift of a pair of Gibson Pewter Earrings. For November, we plan to gift a Stocking Ornament. Maybe this will prompt a family pewter ornament collecting tradition.
Gibson Pewter and The Gallery at Wellsweep will once again host “Christmas in the Centre” on Saturday, December 5th & Sunday 6th from 10 am to 5 pm. Take advantage of this great opportunity to buy wonderful, locally made crafts and fine art, and, of course, some fine pewter!
Refreshments will be served in both locations. Come wiggle your toes, throw some good cheer (and snow?), and mingle with your Hillsborough Centre neighbors.
Time is running out! If you’re thinking about a special pewter gift to give this holiday season—and I hope you are—please get your orders in early so we can be sure to get your order filled and shipped!
What better way to avoid the mall crowds and traffic of Black Friday… give me a call in the shop and do all your holiday shopping in one stroke. We have gifts for every use and taste.
Pick up a copy of the November issue of New Hampshire Magazine. Gibson Pewter is the featured artist.
We just found out about it last week. A nice exposure boost as we head into the holiday buying season.
The full page includes a nice write-up about us, plus it features the tulip-shaped Philadelphia Creamer and the Philadelphia Sugar Bowl both featuring beaded edges.
Our 2009 Hillsborough Christmas Ornament is a face-on view of the historic Franklin Pierce Homestead. This was the boyhood home to the 14th President of the United States.
Built in 1804 as a home to Benjamin Pierce, hero of the Revolutionary War and twice New Hampshire governor. Franklin Pierce spent half his life in this elegant mansion. The Homestead is a living museum and has been restored to its early 19th century appearance. It features original stenciling, 1824 wallpaper, period furnishings, and historical mementos of the Pierce family.
The 2009 Pierce Homestead Christmas ornament was created by Jon Gibson and designed by Roger Goode of Fresh Start Creative. Proceeds from the sale of this year’s ornament will be used exclusively for needed building repairs at the Homestead.
Each of our ornaments is priced at $15. Purchase five ornaments at once, all the same style or all different, and enjoy holiday savings… only $70. You choose your favorites from amongst the entire collection.
Kay Scott won a pair of our Small Star Earrings in September. She’ll twinkle at all her holiday functions this season.
Each month, we select a winner of our monthly gift of a pair of Gibson Pewter Earrings. For October, we plan to gift a pair of Lady Bug Earrings. Good luck may be yours for the asking.
Anyone who registers in the box in the right-hand corner of the website receives periodic updates about our new products and promotions, and those names are among those we select from each
month.
Open the door to creativity, adventure and relaxation. Discover with your family and friends an insider’s view of scenic Hillsborough’s craftspeople and artisans. Participate in NH Open Doors, Veteran’s Day Weekend, November 7 & 8, from 10 am to 5 pm.
We enjoy being a part of this joint NH Made & League of New Hampshire Craftsmen event each year.
Visit http://nhopendoors.com to view participants across the State of New Hampshire.
On September 26th at 6 pm at the New Hampshire Antiquarian Society in Hopkinton, NH, I’ll be previewing a new piece at the 19th Annual “Tomorrow’s Masterpieces” Art Show & Sale. The Show opens with an Artist’s Champagne Reception.
Nancy Fuller was our August winner of Grape Earrings. Pour yourself a glass of red or white and enjoy an early fall sunset.
Each month, we select a winner of our monthly gift of a pair of Gibson Pewter Earrings. For September, we plan to gift a pair of our cute Small Star Earrings. Cool clear nights are perfect for stargazing.
Anyone who registers in the box in the right-hand corner of the website receives periodic updates about our new products and promotions, and those names are among those we select from each month.
Before I polish my pewter plates, I soak them in extremely hot
water for several minutes in a dish pan.
I take a pad of super fine steel wool (0000), place it in the water, squeeze it out, and apply a teaspoon of Dawn dish liquid. Then I take the plate out of the water and begin firmly rubbing the steel wool in a circular pattern from the middle to the outside diameter of the plate. Repeat this rubbing on both sides and dry
the plate with a soft cotton towel or cloth.
I always apply a metal polish. I like (and sell) 3M Chrome & Metal Polish. Apply the polish with a cotton ball and wipe it away with a soft cotton rag before it dries.
Fill the dish pan again with hot water and rinse the plate while
rubbing a few drops of the Dawn dish liquid on both sides of the
plate. Dry the plate completely with a soft cotton cloth or diaper.
I do this type of cleaning process to each of my plates at least
once a year!
With six locations, the event was so grand it was in danger of becoming its own black hole. But the determination of numerous volunteers and curious visitors made the weekend a genuine success.
Their several regiments camped out on Jones Road for a multi-day series of re-enactment activities. A period Magic show, performers and impersonators, blacksmith demonstrations, tours of the Franklin Pierce Homestead, and our beautiful stone arch bridges provided a wealth of things to capture imagination and interest.
We were busy in Hillsborough Center. Camille, the kids and I were all dressed in period costumes while I demonstrated making spoons. Here I’m working with my “intern,” Lily Gibson.
Center School, our one room schoolhouse next door, was open for “class,” and spinners and weavers demonstrated their talents in the Meeting House. The 12th NHV Regiment Serenade band played some jaunty tunes that kept our toes tapping. And one of many competing Town Criers kept us apprised of the weekend events.
If you didn’t make it this year, mark your calendars for late August next year. Once everyone has enjoyed a time of rest, we’ll no doubt gear up to do it again. There is too much history and talent in this small town to keep it quiet.
Behind the scenes we’ve been busy in preparation for the Living History Event to be held right here in Historic Hillsborough the weekend of August 21-23. Camille & I will be dressed in 19th century garb casting 19th century wares!
Visit each of the six interesting historic destinations points throughout town chock full of interactive activities, performers, musicians, demonstrators, and craftsmen.
Right here in Hillsborough Center, you’ll find a charming historic village that served as the center of local life until the 20th century. Still a quaint area full of historic buildings and structures that include an animal pound, horse sheds, cemetery, school house and churches.
This is a great way to spend the weekend experiencing some of New Hampshire’s most beautiful countryside, visiting with the artisans and learning their creative process. You drive from studio to studio at your leisure and all the studios are within a 20 mile radius of the downtown area. Many of the artist will be demonstrating their craft.
The hours of the studio tour on Saturday and Sunday are 10am -5pm
I was delighted to be named one of America’s top 200 traditional craftsmen for the 16th straight year by Early American Life Magazine. Notice of the recognition is in their August issue on news stands now.
Since 1970 Early American Life has been the source for information on early American style, decorating, and traditions. They cover both antiques and reproductions made by crafters working in period styles with traditional tools. They provide solid information that has given them the reputation as the essential magazine about early Americana.
Congratulations to Jaki Dodd, our July winner of Dragonfly Earrings. Your flowers may be pelted and flattened by rain drops now, but they’ll bounce back!
Each month, we select a winner of our monthly gift of a pair of Gibson Pewter Earrings. For August, we’ll be awarding a pair of our sensuous Grape Earrings. Warm, dry weather should bring them out in droves as soon our monsoon season is past.
Anyone who registers in the box in the right-hand corner of the website receives periodic updates about our new products and promotions, and those names are among those we select from each month.
The Queen Anne Tea Service was on exhibit in the “Living With Crafts” exhibit at the annual League of NH Craftsmen Fair in Sunapee, NH earlier this August.
I’m so proud of my wife, Camille (also a league member). She won the “Creative Sewing Award” for her Gold Fish Soft Sculpture!
See it on her website at www.camillegibson.com. And if you are interested in growing your larger than life dry land aquarium, it’s still available for sale!
On Saturday, July 18 from 10am to 4pm, I will be at the Franklin Pierce Homestead in Hillsborough, NH, casting spoons in a circa 1750 antique bronze spoon mold. If you can’t make it to the demonstration at the Homestead, you can watch a casting demo from the comfort of your home here on the site.
We’re also gearing up for the annual League of NH Craftsmen Fair in Sunapee, NH August 1-9. The new Queen Anne Tea Service will be on display in the “Living With Crafts” exhibit throughout the week. Come take a look; it’s a beautiful presentation.
I recently acquired an important early 18th century wavy-end bronze spoon mold at auction. The mold is engraved with a royal portrait on the top and a fanciful scroll pattern on the underside of the bowl.
Only a handful of these kinds of molds exist today, so they are as scarce as the proverbial hen’s teeth. I am indeed fortunate to have landed this wonderful mold. The overall spoon length is 7.25″ —Finished spoons sell for $20. This makes for a great soup spoon!
Gibson Pewter and 
Each month, we select a winner of our monthly gift of a pair of Gibson Pewter Earrings. For October, we plan to gift a pair of 
Once again the 
I take a pad of super fine steel wool (0000), place it in the water, squeeze it out, and apply a teaspoon of Dawn dish liquid. Then I take the plate out of the water and begin firmly rubbing the steel wool in a circular pattern from the middle to the outside diameter of the plate. Repeat this rubbing on both sides and dry
With six locations, the event was so grand it was in danger of becoming its own black hole. But the determination of numerous volunteers and curious visitors made the weekend a genuine success.
Center School, our one room schoolhouse next door, was open for “class,” and spinners and weavers demonstrated their talents in the Meeting House. The 12th NHV Regiment Serenade band played some jaunty tunes that kept our toes tapping. And one of many competing Town Criers kept us apprised of the weekend events.
Each month, we select a winner of our monthly gift of a pair of Gibson Pewter Earrings. For August, we’ll be awarding a pair of our sensuous 
See it on her website at 
On Saturday, July 18 from 10am to 4pm, I will be at the Franklin Pierce Homestead in Hillsborough, NH, casting spoons in a circa 1750 antique bronze spoon mold. If you can’t make it to the demonstration at the Homestead, you can 
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