Teapot 1790 - 1800

This teapot was made by Jabez Halsey, an American silversmith active in the late 18th and early 19th centuries. Halsey worked primarily in silver, a valuable material in this period, and the teapot also features a dark wood handle and likely gilt detailing on the lid. The teapot's silken surface and precisely executed details speak to the skill required for such work. Forming the pot's body, spout, and handle, would involve a complex sequence of forging, hammering, and soldering. The engraved monogram suggests it was commissioned by a wealthy client. Silver objects like this were not just functional, they were potent symbols of social standing. The division of labor is also apparent in this piece, as Halsey would have likely managed a workshop with apprentices to produce such wares. This teapot tells us a story about colonial America's economy, consumption, and craft traditions. Examining how it was made provides insights into the social and economic context of its creation, beyond its purely aesthetic appeal.