Images(14)

Teapot

Date1785-1797

Marked by Simeon Alexander Bayley (1784 - 1799)

Marked by William Grigg (American, died 1797)

OriginAmerica, New York, New York City

MediumSilver; wood

Dimensions11 3/8"; OH: 6 3/8"; OD: 4 1/4"

Credit LineMuseum Purchase, Robert F. Grossman

Object number2017-313

DescriptionSeamed elliptical silver teapot with four ogee bracket-shaped panels (one on each side and one on each end) separated by four narrow plain and concave flutes. Flat conforming base with reinforcement molding under spout. Incurved should, paneled straight spout and paneled handle sockets. Inset hinged lid rises from flat rim to small flat-topped dome surmounted by a flattened urn finial. Replacement wooden handle. Body engraved on each ogee side panel with bright cut borders of half-pattern and an oval cartouche suspended from festoons of bow knots and flowers. End ogee panels engraved with similar borders and bright cut oval pattern. Plain reeds are un-engraved; lid and spout engraved with chevron and dot pattern; shoulder engraved with double-dot pattern. Air vent hole in lid at base of dome, opposite handle. Later engraved monogram "OS" in script on base. Later engraved monogram "BM" [?] in sprigged script in cartouche on proper right side of teapot; cartouche on proper left side has had monogram erased.
Label TextThe overstruck marks of “Bayley” and “Grigg” on this teapot illustrate the complex interrelationships between silversmiths in early Federal America. In 1785, Simeon Bayley advertised that he carried “on his manufactory of gold, silver, jewellery, and water-gilding, at No. 237, Queen-Street, corner of King-Street” in New York. Silversmith William Grigg also kept a shop on Queen Street for a brief time, but from 1782 to 1789, Grigg resided and worked in Halifax, Nova Scotia. Upon returning to New York City, he established himself at Maiden Lane and William Street, mere blocks from Bayley. Since Grigg’s mark is struck on top of Bayley’s, the teapot was likely made in Bayley’s shop but was retailed by Grigg.
InscribedLater engraved monogram "OS" in script on base. Later engraved monogram "BM" [?] in sprigged script in cartouche on proper right side of teapot.
MarkingsMarked on bottom of base "BAYLEY" in stepped rectangle; overstruck by script "Grigg" in stepped rectangle.
ProvenanceVendor: Heritage Auctcion Galleries