Antique Pewter hotsell Father Christmas Ice Cream Mold by Eppelsheimer & Co.

Antique Pewter Father Christmas Ice Cream Mold by Eppelsheimer & Co. Height is 5”. Weight is a bit over 1 lb.

Markings on the mold include - 991 (model #), the number 166 (possibly a product number), E & Co. NY (Eppelsheimer & Co.), a somewhat indistinguishable two words that might be Des Coprd that, if French might mean bodies and the number 1890. Some think 1890 is the patent number, but a search at the US Patent office reveals that 1890:is a totally unrelated patent. 1890 might be a date since Eppelsheimer existed from 1880 to 1947 or it may mean something else. The mold does not close flush, as there are some gaps, but that doesn't matter too much as the lead content of pewter prevents actual use as a mold (last photo).

A bit more history complements of the Smithsonian National Museum of American History: Molded ice cream was a popular treat in the U.S. from the 1870's to 1950's, with a boom in ice cream consumption driving increases in mold production between 1921 and 1925. The 18th amendment, prohibiting the manufacture and sale of alcoholic beverages from 1920 until it was repealed in 1933, sparked an increase in consumer demand for such things as soft drinks, ice cream and confections. Indeed, ice cream consumption increased by over 100 million gallons between 1921 and 1929.

Supposedly 500 years ago they stopped adding lead to pewter. Others think more current pewter might contain lead. If you would plan to actually use hotsell the mold for making a food item, please do your own research as to whether it is safe to use.

Shipping will be same day or next. A signature upon receipt will be requested.

Thanks for considering and please ask any questions..