Antique Pearlware Milsey Strainer
A rare early 19th century blue and white transfer printed pearlware strainer or milsey, with chinoiserie decoration (pagoda pattern maybe) and an unusual moulded handle…
A rare early 19th century blue and white transfer printed pearlware strainer or milsey, with chinoiserie decoration (pagoda pattern maybe) and an unusual moulded handle…
A rare early 19th century blue and white transfer printed pearlware strainer or milsey, with chinoiserie decoration (pagoda pattern maybe) and an unusual moulded handle…
It is believed that the name Milsey may be a Scottish amalgamation of the words ‘milk’ and ‘sieve’, and that these little strainers were used for straining milk to remove the skin that formed when it was boiled (milk was nearly always boiled before use). They are sometimes believed to be egg strainers (for letting the water drain away from a poached egg) or tea strainer (assuming tea leaves were much coarser in the 19th century).There is a very informative and extensive publication by Richard Halliday regarding pickle dishes and milseys, and he tested milseys to see how they faired straining various things, and the milk straining faired best!
Whatever their use, they are charming little things. This one has pretty if slightly indistinct decoration, and a lovely little handle.
Condition: There is a small chip to the handle, but otherwise this is in very good condition.
Dimensions: 9cm in diameter, 11cm wide including the handle, and 2.4cm deep.
Free UK delivery - the item will be sent using a tracked and signed for service. If you would like a quote for delivery elsewhere please get in touch. Please see our How to Buy page for more detailed information regarding delivery.
This is an antique item and as such may have signs of wear in accordance with its age. Anything that we think is of note will have been mentioned above, but please study the photos carefully to satisfy yourself as to its condition as it is not possible to list every little mark or flaw. We are happy to provide high resolution photographs or videos if required, and answer any questions you may have - just get in touch!
