Antique Silver Saffron Teapot

Object Description

A very pretty antique sterling silver teapot with a curved wooden handle. Small size. Good plain style. Uninscribed. Contains 170 ml. Weight 203 grams, 6.5 troy ounces. Height 7.3 cms. Spread 14.7 cms. London 1877. Maker Francis Boone Thomas.

Biography – This firm of retail silversmiths, dating from the mid 18th century, was taken over by John William Thomas in 1848 trading as JW Thomas & Son. On his death in 1852 his two sons, John William Thomas II and Francis Boone Thomas continued the firm as JW & FB Thomas.

John William Thomas II, apprenticed to his father 1840, free 1847.

Francis Boone Thomas, apprenticed to his father 1847, turned over to his brother 1852, free 1854. FB took control of the business in c1862/1867 on the death of his brother. 1st mark entered in 1874. Retail alliance with Richard Sibley II who manufactured at the same address, 13 Oxford Market. Partners c1896 with his nephews Charles Henry Townley who was apprenticed to FB in 1864, free 1871, and John William Thomas III, free by patrimony in 1877. On the death of FB in 1900 his nephews continued he business until c1919 when JW Thomas became the sole partner until his demise in 1924 when his son managed the firm until its closure in 1941.

Object Literature

Saffron was a popular spice used in early English cuisine. Small pots like this are called saffron pots and were probably used to serve saffron sauce.

Object Condition

This little silver teapot is in very good condition with no damage or restoration. The chasing still has good definition, the armorial is crisp. Fully stamped with English silver hallmarks on the body, the lid has the lion mark. This pot has been tested for water retention and does not leak.

Please note that this item is not new and will show moderate signs of wear commensurate with age. Reflections in the photograph may detract from the true representation of this item

Object Details