Miniature teapot with cover 1780

This miniature teapot with cover was made by Johannes van Geffen in the late 18th century. Crafted from silver, it stands as a testament to the intricate artistry prevalent during the era of burgeoning global trade and colonial expansion. The teapot's diminutive size belies its weighty implications. Tea, once a rare commodity, had become a centerpiece of social rituals, particularly among the European elite. Yet, this seemingly innocent indulgence was deeply entangled with the exploitation of labor and resources in distant lands. The silver itself speaks to colonial extraction. This tiny teapot invites us to reflect on the complex interplay between personal pleasure and global power dynamics, and on the hidden histories embedded within everyday objects.