Vintage ceramic Glaze

[Meatheadinc]

Hi Guys

I happened to score some vintaged ceramic demijohns a 1 gallon and a 5 gallon. (free)

A while ago I remember reading a post on ??? some distilling forum, a post about some vintage glaze may contain lead..

any ideas ??

jugs (1) (600x800).jpg

jugs (2) (600x800).jpg

Outside is unsealed, spout and inside glazed ( few chips in top- reason they were being disposed of)

[Triangle]

Yeah, some glazes did contain lead. There's no specific way to tell on old gear either short of sending it away for testing. Bright/decorative glazes were the most common culprits.......and anything from China is still questionable. I bought some tea pots/cups when I was in Foshan this year (as they are famous for their ceramics) with the intention of using some of it.......now I'm erring on the side of caution.

[Meatheadinc]

I believe the majority of glazes used in Aust were sugar glaze - lead free

the jugs have absolutely no markings and could have come from anywhere.

The guy I got them off said his grandad used them for water storage, interesting enough he died of lead poisoning ------ shooting accident

until I can be sure I suppose they will gather dust

[Triangle]

Does the lip on the smaller one have an impression on it?

[Meatheadinc]

Jug (600x800).jpg

Close up. Top of small jug

Top is flat and then tapers to body

[jasonc2861]

I'd be a bit cautious using these,alot of these big old demijohns held some pretty wicked chemicals mate.poisen,acid etc.

[Meatheadinc]

The story I got was that they were used for drinking water storage originally ( neighbours grandfather )and have been used as decretive vases for last 35 years in neighbours lounge room

[Sam.]

You can buy cheap lead test kits off eBay, I would get one and give the inside lip a scuff and see what it says :handgestures-thumbupleft: