sheffield tea / coffee set help have pics

[ahaering]

this set has not been cleaned so that is why it is sooo black. I couldn't believe it polished. I didn't want to ruin, but I also and just trying to figure out how old it is. I have researched hallmarks everywhere and nothing is jiving. please help



there is a lion and a bird also a crown with some sort of palm or bush, but it is just not at all like the hallmarks i am seeing.

here is a pic of the waste bowl I polished a small section on the front to show that all of the tarnish does in fact come off

[silverport]

Hello

Got the impression you have just started - all starts once! If not - there isn't life!

Maybe you were surprised by the huge amount of objects.

"Black" by sulphurization is in case of PLATED objects for collectors a kind of warranty - but the same appearances you would have if there is only a layer by few grams.

Sellers sometimes paint objects to be black - for lower payment of duty.

These objects were maybe made in a little workshop or manufactory in Near East area.

The "decorative" parts are sand cast only and later soldered on blank body. On shown photo of bottom and mark plus digits you could see the brut solder between body and bottom.

The mark's punch itself isn't made by an expert. It's a combination of local elements from flora and fauna - Shef isn't an abbreviation from «Sheffield» - its a suggestion only; and therefore you followed blind. Here its real meaning is «Boss». The numerals or digits aren’t a model number but maybe only a serial number for pay of salary.

You have made a Freudian slip in yours description: « … here is a pic of the waste … »

«Trial and Error» that is Evolution. «Don’t worry - be happy! » - S. Beckett advise: «Try again - fail again - fail better»

I personally advise you: Collect by yours hart - never by yours profit prospects!

Kind regards silverport

[Hose_dk]

I fully agree with the writing of silverport and can add - you can never destroy anything by polish. As long as you do it by hand, using a cloth, brush etc. But never use mashines (of any kind)
A soft cloth - fluid washing - for hand wash to loosen dirt and remove with hot water.
Spat for cleaning (small areas) is fantastic.

The objects are ment to be shining. Sometimes it is not worth the work.

Read as much as possible, books internet etc. Learn regarding art and style.
Visit auktion houses, dealers, fleemarkets - learning to see - also use your fingers when you "see"
Dont be afraid to bye a piece you like - and learn from the process.