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What is Holloware?
Holloware includes a collection of metal containers for use at the table or elsewhere. Holloware has been a part of home decoration for over 4,000 years. Only royalty and the very wealthy owned the early sets but today holloware is seen in a number of homes. Often a bride will receive several gifts of holloware.
Some pieces of holloware:
Some pieces you might see in homes include candlesticks, sugarbowls and creamers, coasters, bowls, trays, and coffee and tea services. Silver and pewter has been considered a standard of elegance for centuries and was used by Europeans, Americans and Orientals. Be creative with your holloware and remember a little goes a long way. Classic silver candlesticks can set the mood for an evening dinner.
How to select Holloware:
Many homemakers start out with a few pieces of their favorite holloware pattern and as the years go by they add to their collection. The size and weight, the amount of metal, elaborateness of design and workmanship determine the price of holloware. The plain raw edges and shapes are generally less expensive to buy. The better pieces will have cast borders, which are magnificent in detail. When selecting holloware be sure the soldering is flawless at the seams. The best pieces have no break in decoration and will have a one-piece border.
Choosing holloware can be exciting and often holloware patterns are designed to coordinate with flatware. This can give your table a look of elegance and impress your quest. When selecting, if necessary take along a piece of your flatware to see how well they coordinate with the holloware. Today, many designs are considered universally compatible.
Uses of holloware:
With the proper use of lighting, holloware can add luster to your home. A few simple ideas can incorporate a marvelous setting. For example a punch bowl can hold keys and mail in the foyer. Sauceboats and other bowls can hold flowers for a centerpiece. Trays can hold small objects such as a deck of cards or set of coasters and smaller bowls or trays can serve as dishes for candy or nuts.
Care and repair:
Always follow the manufacturer's directions for cleaning and polishing. When finished serving, remove the food, do not let it stand in the metal container. Actually little care is required other than washing it with a mild dish detergent and remember to dry it off right away. Occasionally you will need to use silver polish to restore the luster. For storage wrap the pieces in a tarnish-preventive cloth and kept away from air.
You should not be concerned with the small scratches that form over the years of using holloware. They are called patina and are considered part of their charm. Do not polish away the scratches and the oxidized darkening that appears over a decoration for it is considered a style in its own and your guest will delight in its beauty.
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