Images(12)

Teapot

Dateca. 1820

OriginEngland, Staffordshire

MediumLead-glazed earthenware (refined red earthenware / silver lusterware)

DimensionsOL (handle to spout): 10 3/16 in.; OW: 4 1/2 in.; OH (top of handle): 5 5/8 in.

Credit LineMuseum Purchase, C. Thomas Hamlin III Fund

Object number2020-2,A&B

DescriptionMolded silver luster teapot of lead-glazed red earthenware: short stepped foot rises to integral oblong octagonal shape with molded band of elongated ovals at the shoulder; hourglass neck rises to a boat-shaped mouth which partially hides a low-domed lid topped by a canted acorn knop; a molded spout in the form of an open-beaked bird’s head is opposite a flying handle molded in the form of an eagle’s head with a closed beak.Label TextSilver lusterware decoration was a technological innovation perfected by English potters in the early part of the 19th century. Newspapers throughout early Federal America advertised silver luster tea and coffee pots “separate and in sets.” Often the objects drew inspiration in shape and form from silver and fused silverplate (Sheffield plate) examples. The bird’s head shaped handle and spout on this teapot speak to the influence of Naturalism on 19th century material culture. But the free-flying handle is unusual in that it is a construction feature more often associated with sauce boats, not with teapots. Further research into this characteristic may reveal the name of the pottery that produced this stunning object.Inscription(s)NoneMark(s)NoneProvenancePurchased by Colonial Williamsburg from Martyn Edgell, England (2020).

Previously at Skinner Auctions, Inc., Discovery - Interiors Online, Marlborough (Sale 3280T, Lot 1350), August 21-29, 2019.