A silver plate "Tells You How" recipe cocktail shaker by Napier. This is an iconic cocktail shaker with a central band which shows cocktail names along the rim of the base, which then spells out what ingredients are needed through the body. It is a three piece, classic design; with base, straining lid and cap. It is very easy to use, and easy to clean, making these shakers very popular pieces in the early to mid 20th Century.
The company can trace its roots back to 1875 when it was founded as Whitney and Rice in Attleboro, Mass., manufacturing silver products. The firm changed hands and name in 1882 and became Carpenter and Bliss, and shortly thereafter, E.A. Bliss and Co., Inc. After rapid expansion in the late 1880s the company moved to Meriden, CT in 1890 which was an epicenter for the American silver manufacturing business. After the First World War, the firm expanded into the costume jewellery business, while maintaining its silver core. James Napier became president in 1920 and the company adopted the name Napier - Bliss Co. Finally, in 1922, the name was changed to simply; Napier Company.
This cocktail shaker was designed by Le Roy H. Fontan with the patent being applied for September 9th 1932, and finally being approved on September 3rd 1935. This makes it one of the rare American cocktail shakers that originated during prohibition.
Employing a number of leading designers from the period, such as Emile Schulke, who worked during this time for Napier creating other notable pieces, such as the penguin, Napier were leading the way in not only aesthetically beautiful pieces, but also useful ones, such as this. Along the band are the following iconic Jazz Age cocktails; Side Car, Tom Collins, Whisky Sour, Alexander, Bacardi, Between The Sheets, Bronx, Clover Club Dry Martini, Dubonnet, Gin Rickey, Manhattan, Old Fashioned, Orange Blossom and Palm Beach. As the body is rotated around the base, there is an arrow pointing to the selected cocktail, which then lists below, via cut out windows in the two piece base, what is required to make said drink. A wonderful idea, highly copied, but never bettered.
The shaker is presented in superb condition. Fully functioning, and as previously mentioned, very easy to maintain and use. A wonderful, handsome and functional piece for any home bar. Fully signed on the base. Made in America, circa late 1930's.
