George I Silver Teapot

Object Description

A fine early English silver teapot of simple plain form. Pear shaped with domed hinged cover and original wooden handle. Good gauge silver. Hand engraved to the front is large contemporary armorial within a decorative cartouche. Scratchweight 15=3 and owners initials underneath. Early teapots were of small capacity because of the rarity of tea.
Contains 600 ml.
Weight (including handle) 495 grams, 15.9 troy ounces.
Height 21cm. Spread 19.5cm.
London 1725.
Maker John Bache.
Sterling silver.

JOHN BACHE
John Bache, London silversmith, apprenticed to William Harrison 1673, free 1680. Court 1703, warden 1718, 1722-3, prime warden1726. 1st mark as largeworker in partnership with William Denny, circa 1697 (on commencement of register). 2nd mark alone 1700. 3rd mark (sterling) 1720. Known also as Backe or Batch.

Object Literature

Early teapots were of small capacity because of the rarity of tea. Although there are a few 17th century teapots in existence, there is little likelihood of finding one dating before 1710. The earlier the teapot the smaller they tend to be as tea was a very expensive commodity until the middle of the reign of George I.

Object Condition

This rare little silver teapot is in very good condition. Stamped underneath with a full and clear set of English silver hallmarks, the lid has the lion and makers mark. This pot has been water tested and doesn’t 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