A rare Worcester armorial miniature teapot and stand, circa 1754-55

painted with the arms of Townshend of Raynam, azure, a chevron ermine between three scallops argent, and delicate flower sprays including a pink rose, flower sprigs and scattered winged insects, the teapot with a later silver cover, incised scratch mark to teapot, minute chip to rim of stand.

The teapot: The property of J. Warrell, Esq., Sotheby's London, 13th February 1979, lot 92
Acquired from Simon Spero, London, 4th June 1996 
The stand: Christie's South Kensington, London, 5th November 1998, lot 143

Colin Hanley, 'A Miniature Armorial Teapot', E.C.C Transactions, 2001, vol. 17, part 3.

stand: there is a minute chip to the stand. teapot: in good condition, no damage noted.
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

When the teapot was offered at Sotheby's in 1979, it was sold alongside a full-sized saucer, a miniature cream jug, four miniature teabowls, and a miniature saucer, lots 91-95. A further miniature saucer was sold at Bonhams London, 10th September 2008, lot 294. It could be inferred that as there is a full-sized saucer decorated with the armorial that two services were produced, miniature and full-sized. The service was probably made for the children of George, 1st Marquis of Townshend and Lady Charlotte Compton, 15th Baroness Ferrers. It is interesting to note that the armorial is within a lozenge which indicates that it is a made for a woman. A likely candidate is their first daughter Charlotte, who was born in 1754, and died aged two in 1756. For a full discussion of the service see Colin Hanley's E.C.C article, cited above. Full article available online on Sothebys.com.