Large Victorian can-shaped silver teapot

Late Victorian silver teapot of panelled, can-shaped form and decorated with fine hand engraving around the entire body and cover. The cover is fitted with a flush-mounted jeweller's hinge - a sign of quality - and is surmounted by a detachable finial. Both finial and handle are ebonised fruitwood, probably apple or pear.

The teapot pot has bead pattern borders and is engraved on one side within a circular shield with entwined initials. The other side features a vacant shield without engraving.

With a capacity of more than nine teacups, which is more than a litre, this teapot is robust and big enough to be used daily at breakfast or tea time. Most importantly, it pours beautifully without dripping.

A silver teapot pours like no other and sterling silver is the perfect material for making teapots:

· No other material can be fashioned into such elegant and detailed forms, reflect light as beautifully, and a perfectly formed silver teapot spout will never drip.

· Second only to diamonds, silver has the highest thermal conductivity of any material, meaning that tea leaves can be brewed at a higher temperature than in any other teapot, allowing the tea leaves to fully release their flavours.

· That same high thermal conductivity means a silver teapot will retain heat and keep tea hot for much longer.

· Unlike porcelain and ceramic teapots, silver is sturdy and long-lasting, does not shatter and the occasional dent can be debruised.