Lot 3172
  • 3172

An American Silver Teapot, Samuel Kirk, Baltimore, 1840

Estimate
1,200 - 1,800 USD
Log in to view results
bidding is closed

Description

  • marked on base KIRK, S.K. and 11oz in rectangles, domenical shield and with incuse F
  • Silver, Ivorine (Plastic)
  • height 8 1/4 in.
  • 21cm
of bombé circular form, embossed and chased with exotic landscapes including buildings, forests, and a sailor in a boat, angular handle headed by a ram's mask, engraved on one side with contemporary arms in a shield flanked by sprigs of flowers

Provenance

Sold, Sotheby's, New York, 27-28 June 1990, lot 135

Condition

good condition, decoration crisp, heavy. Please note that the ivory insulators have been removed and replaced with ivorine (plastic).
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.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.

Catalogue Note

The arms are those of Purnell, possibly for William Henry Purnell (1826-1902) or his parents.  He was comptroller of Maryland from 1856 to 1860, elected as a member of the Know-Nothing Party.  He served in the Union Army, raising a unit called Purnell's Legion from Worcester County, Maryland.  In 1870 he became president of Delaware College.