ANTIQUE SILVER KETTLES
Antique Silver kettles Description:
A table holder for keeping tea or water hot and used for replenishing teapots.
Antique Silver kettles History:
Early examples before 1700 are very rare. They were made throughout the Georgian, Victorian, and 20th century periods. They are still being made today but in much smaller quantities.
Antique Silver kettles Design:
All kettles are characterised by an insulated handle (either fixed or swinging), a spout for pouring, and a heating device (usually a small burner sitting in a stand). The earlier Georgian kettles have the burner stand separate, whilst later Victorian versions had the stand secured by locking pins on chains. Their styles mirrored the periods that they were made in, usually round or oval in basic shape, with decoration varying from heavy rococco, fluting, to very plain with reeded edges.
Antique Silver kettles Collectors Note:
It is very important to make sure that all parts are hallmarked and that they match, including the main body, hinged lid, handle if hinged, burner stand, the burner itself, and any pins. Check the wider part of the main body for any damage and thin spots due to the removal of crests and monograms. Look closely at where the spout and handle are attached, and check for obvious signs of repair. Also check the burner stand again for signs or repair, as they are quite fragile compared to the main part of the kettle.