These days, if you want to give or collect Queens Art Pewter, you'll have to look a little further than its old Brooklyn address. Because this long-standing company stopped production in 2000, collectors must now go to museums or auction houses to enjoy fine pieces of pewter bearing the familiar Queens Art Pewter seal.
Founders
In 1930, two German men, Anton Thuerer and Frederich Bauer, started Queens Art Pewter from their kitchen. As skilled pewterers, these men grew their business from a kitchen laboratory to a recognized address in the Brooklyn Navy Yard.
History
In 1960, John Arcate took over the pewter company after learning the trade from Theurer and Bauer. He made it a family business and continued the tradition until 2000, when he stopped production to take care of family health issues, including his own.
Popular Pieces
The most popular Queens Art Pewter pieces are mahogany-mounted copies of the Brooklyn Bridge. John Arcate once stated for the "New York Daily News" that his customers made over a thousand requests for this particular mantelpiece.
Identification
Queens Art Pewter pieces are identified by a crown emblem surrounded by a circular band with the words "Hand Made Danish Quality Pewter/Made in USA." Underneath this is a line that says, "Queens Art/Pewter/Brooklyn/N.Y.
Fun Fact
Queens Art Pewter made the chalice and paten for Pope John Paul for the 1979 mass in Washington. It was approximately 7 inches in diameter.
References
Resources
Writer Bio
Zoe Maletta writes on a variety of topics with special focus on leadership, careers and small business management. Professionally writing since 2007, her many publishers include "The Houston Chronicle", "Global Post Careers" and "The Nest." When she's not writing, Maletta enjoys making memories with family and participating in church ministry. Maletta holds both a B.S.and an M.A. in counseling.
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