Coffeepot

Date1730-1750

MediumBrass; silver (silvered brass); fruitwood

DimensionsOH: 6 7/8"

Credit LineMuseum Purchase

Object number1974-38

DescriptionSilvered brass coffeepot of lighthouse form; body seamed down the side on which the handle is attached; applied rims at top and base; two cast handle sockets support probably original fruitwood handle; cast lid with applied finial; spout with bird-head detail at opening; engraved coat of arms on face. Most silvering has been lost through polishing.Label TextA less durable alternative to fused silverplate (Sheffield plate) was French plate. French plating involved burnishing, or rubbing, silver leaf onto a prepared and heated surface with a smooth-faced tool. The technique was used mainly on brass objects that were akin to silver forms such as this handsome coffeepot.Inscription(s)Engraved coat of arms on face.Mark(s)NoProvenanceVendor: Rupert Gentle, Wiltshire, England