Coffeepot
Date1744-1745
Marked by
William Partis
(English, 1731 - 1759)
OriginEngland, Newcastle
MediumSilver (sterling); wood
DimensionsOH: 8 3/4"; OW (including handle and spout): 8 3/8"; O Diam. base: 4 1/4"
Credit LineMuseum Purchase
Object number1992-136
DescriptionSilver coffeepot: Circular stepped foot supports pear-shaped body with hinged, stepped domed lid with acorn finial. S-shaped spout with scrolled furls opposite a C-shaped wood handle with scrolled grip and scrolled silver ferrules.Lower body of pot with relief-chased fluting beneath a flat-chased band of scrolling foliage against a matted ground. Proper right side of chased band ornamented with a scene of a cabriole-legged tea table set with a large coffeepot and bowl of berries [?], a creampot or ewer, and multiple cups. A large kettle sits on the ground between the legs of the tea table. Proper left side of chased band ornamented with a large two-handled basket of flowers. Flat-chased scrolls, flowers, and foliage at rim of body, around junctures of spout and handle ferrules, and around finial on lid. Spout chased with shells and diaper work.
Label TextSurviving silver coffee and chocolate pots by William Partis of Newcastle, England, often feature bands of exuberant flat-chased foliage and scrolls around their bases, handles, and spouts, but this example is exceptional in its depiction of a kettle beneath a heavily laden table replete with a coffeepot.
MarkingsMarked in relief on base: 1) lion passant; 2) leopard's head crowned; 3) date letter "E" for 1744-45; 4) three castles in a heart-shaped reserve, the assay mark for Newcastle; and 5) "WP" in script in a rounded rectangle for William Partis. Also marked with #1 on bezel of lid.
ProvenanceVendor: Brand Inglis, London
Exhibition(s)