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17” Georgian Early 19th-Century Louis Seize Adams-Style Copper & Bronze Samovar

$2,498.39
£1,795
€2,136.41
CA$3,439.45
A$3,498.65
CHF 1,997.78
MX$42,318.10
NOK 23,295.16
SEK 23,652.09
DKK 15,971.19

About the Item

A rare and exceptionally impressive early 19th-century English copper and bronze samovar, dating to the Georgian period and displaying the elegant classical vocabulary associated with the Louis Seize and Adams styles. Standing approximately 17 inches tall, this is a substantial and highly decorative example of early English domestic metalwork. The egg-shaped copper body is particularly handsome, following the classical proportions of an early English amphora. It rises elegantly from a substantial stepped square base terminating in four feet, giving the piece both stability and a strong architectural presence. The body is fitted with two substantial fixed loop handles, while the finely constructed brass spigot features an elegant arched handle terminating in a distinctive white ceramic ball. One of the most attractive details is the beautifully formed brass tap, incorporating decorative scrolling and the traditional “C” and “S” elements. The combination of copper, bronze and brass creates a wonderfully rich contrast. “BEST LONDON MADE” MARK An especially interesting feature is the impressed marking found to the underside of the tinned lid: “BEST LONDON MADE” The lid also carries the numbers “5 Qts” and “No. 298” around the lower exterior edge. Comparable early English copper vessels are encountered with related “Best London Manufacture” / “Warranted” markings, making this impressed inscription an intriguing feature for further research. GEORGIAN / ADAMS-STYLE DESIGN The overall design is strongly influenced by the classical forms popularised during the Georgian period, particularly the work and design vocabulary associated with Robert and James Adam. The tall, restrained silhouette, amphora-like body, stepped architectural base and elegant handles all reflect the late 18th- and early 19th-century fascination with classical antiquity. The upper section tapers gracefully towards the lid, which is finished with an attractive finial. Beneath the lid is the internal heating arrangement characteristic of these vessels, incorporating a central tube designed to accommodate a heated iron, allowing the contents to remain warm. The combination of practical engineering and sophisticated classical styling makes this a particularly fascinating example of Georgian domestic equipment. A SUBSTANTIAL DECORATIVE OBJECT At approximately 17 inches tall, this is considerably more imposing than many surviving examples. It would make a wonderful statement piece within a collection of Georgian antiques, English copper, early domestic metalwork or classical decorative arts. It would look particularly impressive displayed on a sideboard, console or within a period interior. MEASUREMENTS Height: Approx. 17" (43.2 cm) Width including handles: Approx. 10" (25.4 cm) Depth including tap: Approx. 10" (25.4 cm) Base: Approx. 5" × 5" (12.7 × 12.7 cm) Capacity: Approx. 5 quarts (4.7 litres) Weight: To be confirmed CONDITION Excellent antique condition, commensurate with age and historic use. There are some small bruises and minor knocks to the copper body, consistent with an early 19th-century vessel of this type, but these do not detract from its overall appearance. The piece has not undergone restoration, retaining its authentic antique character and original construction. Please examine all photographs carefully, particularly the maker's marking beneath the lid and the various details of the copper and bronze work. A rare and highly decorative Georgian samovar combining classical Adams-style design, substantial copper construction and an intriguing “BEST LONDON MADE” marking. An exceptional piece for the discerning collector of early English metalwork. We ship tracked, worldwide.
  • Dimensions:
    Height: 17 in (43.18 cm)Width: 10 in (25.4 cm)Depth: 10 in (25.4 cm)
  • Materials and Techniques:
  • Period:
  • Date of Manufacture:
    ca. 1820
  • Condition:
  • Seller Location:
    Nottingham, GB
  • Reference Number:
    1stDibs: LU9003251349132

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