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Teapot lid
Teapot lid

Teapot lid

Maker
Datemid-19th century
Object number00040898
NameLid
MediumPewter
Dimensions45 x 70 mm (2.75 in)
ClassificationsTools and equipment
Credit LineANMM Collection Purchased with USA Bicentennial Gift funds
DescriptionThis tea pot lid fetaures a stiple engraved floral decoration. It accompanies a Chinese teapot (00040897) that was exported from the Swatow region of China in the 19th century. The large coastal town and port was one of the main centres for exporting pewterware to the Western world. Marked on the lid's inside is 'Kut Hing Pewter Swatow', representing the manufacturers mark.HistoryThe oldest known deposits of tin are in Asia and pewterware was first produced in China from about 200 B.C. The most prolific 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.SignificanceThis teapot lid 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.