A SMALL COLLECTION OF ANTIQUE SILVER
AND OBJECTS OF VERTU
THE WHAT IS? SILVER DICTIONARY



FLAGON

The flagon is a tall pouring vessel, so called from c. 1640, having a single handle, hinged lid with finial and thumbpiece.

In origin the flagons were an enlargement of the belly cans illustrated in North European 15th century pictures.

Later they assumed the straight-side form of an enlarged tankard.









silver flagon

The lid is domed or cushion shaped and the body is cylindrical, barrel or drum shaped.

They may be plain, gilt, engraved, or chased in low relief.

The flagons were used for serving wine at table, by replenishing cups and tankards.

As many made for secular use were given to a church, the term flagon is commonly applied to a church vessel used to replenish the wine in a chalice or communion cup.









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