Teapot - Silverplated - The Harmony Association.

An exceptionally historic 19th-century presentation object: an elegant silvered samovar / teapot on its original stand with accompanying spirit burner, richly executed in a refined, late-Victorian style.

This object stands out not only for its aesthetic quality but especially for its outstanding provenance. On the front there is an engraved plaque bearing the original inscription:

“De leden van de vereeniging De Harmonie
aan hunnen voorzitter
den heer R. Bloembergen Ez
Leeuwarden, 2 maart 1896”

From this it appears that this piece was offered as an official honorary gift to R. Bloembergen, a prominent figure within the Leeuwarden elite and closely involved with the Vereeniging De Harmonie — an influential cultural society that underpinned the later theatre life in Friesland.

Such objects, with a direct link to a historical association and an identified person, are rare and offer a tangible connection with the cultural and social life of the Dutch bourgeoisie in the late 19th century.

The samovar is designed with a gracefully curved spout, a tall rising handle with insulating elements, and a refined openwork border decoration. The accompanying stand, executed with turned columns and richly detailed feet, carries the piece in an elegant manner. The original spirit lamp is still present, underscoring the completeness and authenticity of this ensemble.