Tea warmer
Datec. 1820
MediumPorcelain with overglaze polychrome ornament and gilding
Dimensions8 3/4 × 5 7/8 × 4 1/2 inches (22.2 × 14.9 × 11.4 cm)
Credit LineGift of Mrs. Montgomery Purdy.
Object number1975.4.1.a-.d
CopyrightThe images and text contained on this page are owned by Telfair Museums or used by the Museum with permission from the owners. Unauthorized reproduction, transmission or display of these materials is prohibited with the exception of items deemed “fair use” as defined by U.S. and international copyright laws.Label TextThis tea warmer features a series of overlapping, hand painted garlands encircling the small teapot and its base. Tea warmers were among the novelty objects that 19th-century ceramics manufacturers produced to increase their sales. Intended for use in a bed chamber, the tiny cup was filled with oil or spirits and a wick. Once lit, it was placed inside the base. Then, small spots of light from the flame would shine through the holes around the base like a nightlight as it warmed the teapot above.
Text written for 'Lingua Flora,' on view from June 21–September 8, 2024.
