Seamed, straight-sided oval teapot with flared shoulder and domed oval, hinged lid topped by cast acorns; flat bottom set in. Symmetrical bright-cut decoration on both sides features a pointed shield amidst festoons, one is engraved "MEA" in conjoined foliate script and the other "1859". Additional garlands and sprigs follow the bellied S-curve spout and right-angled handle, almost square in section, which is pinned into rounded insulators and C-curve sockets. Rollerwork and applied beading at lid, rim, shoulder, top and bottom of body, and base of spout. Body perforated at spout. Bottom underside is struck with four incuse marks for "GALE & WILLIS". Part of a three-piece tea service, DL*64.0138A-C.
Our collection database is a work in progress. We may update this record based on further research and review. Learn more about our approach to sharing our collection online.
If you would like to know how you can use content on this page, see the Smithsonian's Terms of Use. If you need to request an image for publication or other use, please visit Rights and Reproductions.