Teakettle

1825-1860

Measurements

11-1/4 in x 11-3/4 in x 7-7/8 in (dia)

Materials

Copper and brass

Credit Line

Historic Odessa Foundation, gift of Hugh R. and Bayard Sharp

Accession Number

1977.584

Condition Notes

A lacquer coating added to the kettle has darkened with age.

Provenance

Although not confirmed in writing, this tea kettle likely belonged to H. Rodney Sharp, father of the donors.

Comments

Although the body and spout resemble earlier teakettles, this example exhibits several features that identify it as a later product.  They also suggest an origin in England or Europe.  The handle differs from strap-handle Pennsylvania counterparts (for an example, see accession no. 1959.3852) in two ways:  Its shape mimics one with a turned wooden handle.  In addition, the handle is cast in three parts, resulting in more substantial and rigid straps.  One end screws into the cylindrical handle; the other is riveted onto the shoulder of the body, as in earlier kettles.  Also noteworthy, the domed lid is stepped, and it has a high, acorn-shaped finial.  The spout (with a solder seam along the top) is of the gooseneck form, used broadly and for generations in these vessels.  The body is seamed in the back (opposite the spout).

The inside of the kettle appears to have been zinc-lined.  The exterior has had a coat of lacquer added that has now darkened.