Images(4)

Teapot

Datemid-19th century

Object number00040897

NameTea pot

MediumPewter

Dimensions130 x 250 x 140 mm

ClassificationsTools and equipment

Credit LineANMM Collection Purchased with USA Bicentennial Gift funds

Terms

DescriptionThis round-bellied eapot features a decoration of peonies and four-clawed dragons amongst scrolling waves. The spout is in the shape of a duck's bill with an embossed beared European face at the base. It was made in the Swatow region of China, a centre for exporting pewterware in the 19th century. The teapot's base is marked with the text 'Kut Hing pewter Swatow' and three Chinese ideograms, representing the manufacturers mark.HistoryThe oldest known deposits of tin are in Asia and pewterware was first produced in China from about 200 BC. The most active pewterers were based in Shantou (Swatow). This large coastal town and seaport was one of the main centres for the export of pewterware in large quantities to the Western world during the 19th century. Swatow pewter was first offered around 1885 and it is typically fairly thick and heavy. During the 19th century, China attracted European, American and Australian merchants keen to take advantage of the lucrative trade in goods, including silverware, tea, furniture, opium and paintings.SignificanceThis teapot is representative of the prolific amount of pewterware exported from China's Swatow region in the 19th century. It highlights the combination of Chinese and European styles in the production of goods.