Paktong  (English, Hardcover, Pinn Keith)

Pakton, a rare Chinese alloy, imported in small quantities during the 18th century, was used by European craftsmen to make domestic objects in imitation of silverware. The vital silver-coloured ingredient, nickel, was not identified in the west until the 2nd half of the 18th century. Keith Pinn's original research allows the full history of paktong in 18th century England to be pieced together. This well-illustrated study of more than 100 paktong pieces will help collectors and dealers identify and understand objects made from this scarce and highly-prized Chinese metal.