The Irish Gift House

The early history of pewter in Ireland goes back at least 800 years. The pewters of this era produced the first utensils for domestic use, consisting mainly of tankards, plates and candlesticks.  Around the 12th. century, pewter was only within the reach of the wealthy, where it was to be found on the tables of castle halls and in the houses of rich merchants and churchmen. Later its use spread into taverns and cottages.  With the introduction of pottery and glass, its use declined during the 18th and 19th centuries, but it has seen a more recent revival. 

It is now fashionable to buy pewter for everyday use instead of silver. Pewter is easy to store, never wears out and on special occasions it provides a splendid display. It can also be readily engraved with an inscription by any competent jeweller.  About the only thing that has changed in pewter manufacture is the composition of materials. Originally pewter was made from a composition of lead and tin. Today, the raw materials consist of 95% tin with the balance made up of copper and antimony. The products are guaranteed lead-free and quite safe to be used for all kinds of food and drink.

This ancient craft of pewter making was revived by Mullingar Pewter in 1974. Most of the pieces are still made in the traditional way in our own workshop by Irish men and women, specially trained in the old casting methods, meticulous assembly and delicate hand finishing. These skills take years to acquire.  Mullingar Pewter has consistently applied the highest standards of design and quality control in the production of these exquisite gifts. The Company is rightly renowned around the world for its fine lead-free pewter.