Antique English Silverplate Beverage Service

“What are you giving us?"
"Cold consomme, a cutlet, and a savoury, sir. With lemon-squash, iced."
"Well, I don't see how that can hurt him. Don't go getting carried away by the excitement of the thing and start bringing in coffee.” ~ P. G. Wodehouse

An antique English silverplate beverage service with caddy, circa the 1920s, this handsome stand—complete with its set of six matching cut glass glasses—was originally designed for serving juice (just appearing on menus of the time in diminutive three-ounce pours as more of a tonic than today's range of beverages), or “squash,” the fruit drinks so often mentioned in British literature of the era. Featuring a dramatic scrolling handle, gleaming mirror-plate finish, glamorous ruffled edges, and sparkling cut glass juice glasses, this lovely caddy is a dazzling addition to any silver collection.

Often referred to as “lemon squash,” as in the P. G. Wodehouse reference above, squash is a fruit-based concentrate that is diluted with water before drinking. The beverage grew popular in Britain during the late 19th and early 20th centuries, evolving from earlier fruit cordials and quickly becoming a household staple—particularly at breakfast tables and summer luncheons.

Still beloved in Britain today, squash remains a nostalgic favorite for children while also finding new life in modern mocktails and refreshing mixed drinks.

Whether used for its original purpose or repurposed for serving cordials, juices, or even a splash of whiskey or sunny limoncello, this elegant stand and its glasses make a magnificent addition to a home bar or cheerful brunch tablescape.

Original price $375. Strictly one-of-a-kind and subject to prior sale. In very good antique condition. Caddy measures 11.75" at widest point x 8.75"H. Glasses 2.25"D x 2.75"H