Teapot - Silverplated

This exquisite Portuguese silver-plated teapot, dating from the pivotal transition between the late 18th and early 19th centuries, is a fine example of Neoclassical taste. It is an authentic period piece, with age and character consistent with long use.

Grace and symmetry guide its design, with a rounded body and a refined, curvaceous spout. The handle, possibly insulated with a spacer crafted from ivory, bone, or possibly rosewood, adds elegance while reflecting the practical concerns of serving hot liquids. The lid’s pommel, likely made of ebony, provides a striking contrast and shows the attention to detail typical of the era’s craftsmanship.

An intricately engraved decorative band adorns the body, displaying a foliate motif characteristic of Neoclassical design, often associated with garlands and swags. These motifs were not merely decorative, but closely aligned with the aesthetic preferences of the period.

The piece shows signs of having been cherished. Light wear and minor bruises are visible on the surface, consistent with age and careful handling over time. These gentle imperfections add to its history and presence.

In the 18th century, a teapot of this kind would have been more than a household object; it would have been a display piece linked to social ritual, particularly when tea was an expensive luxury. Measuring 15 cm in height and 10 cm in width, and weighing 375 g, it remains an attractive and decorative object.