Old Martin Hall & Co. Silver-plated Tripod Hanging Pot w/ Burner
20 July 2020
Description

This is an old piece we inherited, that was probably picked up in England in the 1950s. The closest thing I have been able to find to it is an old egg coddler, which features a burner under a pot, similar to this. But this does not appear to be an egg-coddler, as it has no inner cage to hold the eggs. I have extensively searched Martin Hall & Co. pieces, and have found nothing like this. So the first question is, WHAT exactly is this piece?--What was it designed to do? The measurements are as follows: --The Tripod legs (shaped like tree limbs) are 15" tall. --The silver pot that hangs suspended by a chain, is 4" high x 4-3/4" wide. --The burner at the bottom of it is @ 2-2/3" across, and opens up for fuel, and an opening and closing cap on top. Speaking of the burner, what sort of fuel is this supposed to use? Does it need a wick? I realize this is not sterling, but is plated, but because it appears to be so rare, I'm hoping it will be worth something to collectors. Could you please give us an idea what it's worth? Along with the photos I took, I am attaching one from a website that shows clearly the exact marks that are found on the bottom of the pot, just so you can see what these are. Thank you for your kind assistance in helping us figure out what this is, and what it's worth. We really do appreciate your help!

Provenance

Purchased in Europe mid 20th century

Acquired from
Inherited
For sale
Yes
Answered within 2 days
By Sabrina Vinther
Jul 22, 19:28 UTC
Fair Market Value
$200 - $250 USD
Insurance Value $0 USD
What does this mean?

Thank you for contacting Mearto with your appraisal inquiry.

It is a beautiful egg coddler. Such vintage table items are being offered at auction on a regular basis.
I believe your tripod hanging burner to be an egg coddler however the insert for the eggs appears to be missing. If it is the right tripod stand for this piece I am unsure of. Usually a kind of lamp oil were used for these kind of table items.
It is a lovely item dating from the late 1800s/early 1900s when this type of item was in fashion in the wealthy households. It appears to be in good condition and despite from the missing insert I would certainly believe that it would attract the attention of both collectors and dealers if it came up for auction.
The estimate provided is for a well-advertised specialised online silver auction, where I believe the egg coddler has the best chance of realising its fullest potential. However, there is no measurement for the sentimental value you might attach to the lovely egg coddler. Retail "asking prices" can be higher and vary.

Please let me know if you have any additional questions. I’m happy to help.
Thank you

John macleod Feb 05, 04:26 UTC

I have one the same but in silver plate and is described as an "egg warmer". It was made by Elkington & Co in around 1896. Mine has a sort of an open spoon presumably to scoop out the egg(s) when ready. Given the markings and web research it was made prior to 1896. I want to sell but live in Tasmania. John

Sabrina vinther Feb 05, 12:07 UTC

Your item will be presented for several auction houses, but they tend only to be interested in items worth more than $1000. I would recommend eBay for these kinds of items because of the extended amount of buyers on the platform. This should also be possible from Tasmania.
Please let me know if you have any additional questions. I’m happy to help.
Thank you

Stella jane Apr 16, 19:01 UTC

I have one very similar to this, but mine seems to be a teapot hanging on the tripod. Thoughts on value?

Sabrina vinther May 04, 17:19 UTC

Thank you for your comment. I will be happy to appraise your teapot hanging on the tripod if you purchase an additional appraisal and upload pictures and information about this teapot.

Kind regards.

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