Tobacco jar, England, 1840-1860

Lead tobacco jar, octagonal in shape with lid, English

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Lead tobacco jar, octagonal in shape with lid, English
Science Museum Group Collection
© The Board of Trustees of the Science Museum

Lead tobacco jar, octagonal in shape with lid, finial in shape of head of a child, English, 1840-1860

Containers for tobacco were traditionally known as jars, whatever material was used to construct them. Made from lead, this tobacco jar was used so frequently the gold painted decoration has been rubbed off. Shredded tobacco used for smoking would have been stored in this jar and it may have been available in a public space, such as a tavern, or used in the home.

Lead jars were first introduced in the 1750s and remained popular until the 1900s.

Details

Category:
Smoking
Collection:
Sir Henry Wellcome's Museum Collection
Object Number:
A220552
Materials:
lead (metal)
Measurements:
overall: 140 mm x 150 mm x 110 mm, 1.77kg
type:
tobacco jar
credit:
Wellcome Trust (Purchased from Stevens)