Part II of The Pewter Collection of Dr. Melvyn & Bette Wolf

In the early days they relied on friend and mentor John Carl Thomas, from whom they bought most of their finest pewter. Ledie Laughlin, John Carl Thomas and Peter Hornsby deserve the highest marks, according to Bette Wolf, for writing some of the best books on pewter including Pewter of the Western World, a title suggested by Dr. Wolf to Hornsby. To have so many pieces of pewter from the Wolf’s private collection featured in these books is a tribute to their lifelong quest for quality forms in outstanding condition. John Thomas used multiple pictures of marks from the Wolf’s collection as their collection was considered one of the finest American collections of pewter.

The Wolfs gained expertise over many decades and became icons in the field of pewter collecting and dealing. Researching the items in their collection, they were able to contribute a great deal of information to the study of American pewter. They also generously shared their knowledge with collectors. Each of the Wolfs served as president of the Pewter Collectors Club of America, the association with the nation’s foremost pewter experts and dealers, contributing articles to many of the club’s publications. The Wolf’s own book, An American Pewter Collection, made identifying American pewter easier for anyone. Their writings for the past fifty years have enlightened and remained true to this day.

For their collection, the Wolfs sought the very best pewter. Form and condition had to be optimal, even if the pieces overstretched their budget. In their book, they wrote, “it is better to purchase one good antique than three mediocre ones,” and illustrated the point with relatable anecdotes from their early days. They researched the provenance of each of their pieces, not always successfully. A particular challenge was Dr. Wolf’s favorite piece, a William Will coffeepot, sold in Part I of their collection in September 2024, which had been purchased at the Dr. Robert Mallory sale. The coffeepot was on record being described as “A superb specimen of William Will’s tall coffee pot, a form unique with Will and as imposingly handsome a piece of American pewter as may be made anywhere. This latter exhibit has a history (I am unable to say whether factual or legendary) which indicates that it was originally purchased by Thomas Jefferson who made a gift of it to a sister of Alexander Hamilton” (Pewter Bulletin, Vol. 4, p. 9). Inspired by this tantalizing provenance and the sheer beauty of the piece, Dr. Wolf spent years exploring its provenance, trying to find the evidence that would conclusively link it to Jefferson.

Throughout the objects in their collection and their research of each piece is woven a web of the top dealers and collectors in America, forming a group of comrades and specialists who were their great friends. Melvyn sadly passed away this past February at the age of 91. Shortly afterwards Bette moved to the Chicago area to be closer to family. Now Bette hopes others can enjoy owning a part of this unmatched pewter collection.

Melvyn and Bette Wolf assembled this collection with both rarity and condition as top priorities. The vast majority of these pieces are in fine or mint condition. If you require further details on a specific lot or additional photos, please email us at conditions@pookandpook.com.

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