Teapot and stand

Date1787-1800

Maker James Vickers

MediumPewter (Britannia metal); wood; ivory

DimensionsOH (with stand): 8"; OH: 7 1/8"; OL: 11 3/8"; OW: 4 1/16"

Credit LineMuseum Purchase

Object number1999-54,1

DescriptionTeapot and stand Pewter (Britannia metal): Fluted oval, seamed vertically at the handle; flat bottom; incurved plain raised shoulders; flush-mounted hinged oval lid, domed at the center, with green-stained ivory acorn finial; straight tapered spout; plain straight sockets, holding a C-curve wood wooden handle. Engraved borders and panels with archery bows, quivers, and arrows; the middle panel on both sides shows a shield cartouche with swag drapery, ermine, and tassels.
Label TextThis elegant teapot and stand in early neoclassic taste are brilliant exemplars of Britannia metal wares by the developer of the medium. James Vickers of Sheffield showed how a fine grade of pewter could be rolled out cold into workable sheet and then fashioned into objects that possess the lightness of comparable examples in sterling or fused silverplate. Fashionable engraved borders and panels with archery bows and quivers depending from bowknots provide appropriate classical dress. Elaborate cartouches with swagged drapery, ermine, and tassels frame shields for an owner's armorials or initials and provide strong focal points in the center of both sides. These cartouches take their cue from those on silverplate. They were engraved at the factory, and most remain blank to this day.
InscribedOwner's name "James Cadkin (?)" scratched on underside of tray.
MarkingsTouch mark "I"VICKERS" on underside of teapot in center (Scott 467). "I" above touch mark a possible workman's mark. Stand unmarked.

ProvenancePurchased from Brian Beet, London.