Huntley and Palmers was originally founded in 1822 by Thomas Huntley and George Palmer and continued to trade until the early 1990’s.
Like many of Britain’s longest-established food companies, it was started by a Quaker, a religious sect whose members were forbidden by law from entering the established professions. In this case, a man by the name of Joseph Huntley, supported by his son Thomas, opened a shop in Reading, Berkshire, from where he started selling biscuits and confectionery. After 19 successful years he was joined by his cousin George Palmer and, together, they created a business which, at its peak, was trading in 137 countries. Huntley & Palmers success wasn’t just based on producing unique, top-quality products. The brand’s packaging, especially with its tins, and its advertising also achieved unsurpassed standards of excellence and the company won many gold awards at trade fairs in the decades before and after 1900.
The item is a gorgeous antique Huntley Palmer biscuit tin with bright embossed floral patterning all over. The tin is not smooth like any other normal vintage tin, but textured. Very colourful scalloped patterns all round and a floral bouquet in the center of the lid.
The tin has a label underneath: Gainsborough..
The item has age related wear and rust spots as well as some fading of the pattern on the lid. It also has a slight dent on the lid (please see picture).
Height with lid: 8.5 cm, Height of rim: 7 cm, Diameter: 20 cm
