Late Victorian Rococo Revival Silver-Plated Coffee Pot
Tea/Coffee Service (Coffee Pot) · Likely a 19th-century British Sheffield plate or EPNS manufacturer. The label mentions 'Sheffield,' a city renowned for industrial-scale silver plating since the 18th century.
Pattern: Rococo Revival Pattern (Anonymous); production status: discontinued.
Type
Tea/Coffee Service (Coffee Pot)
Maker
Likely a 19th-century British Sheffield plate or EPNS manufacturer. The label mentions 'Sheffield,' a city renowned for industrial-scale silver plating since the 18th century.
Material
Silver Plate (Electroplated Nickel Silver - EPNS or Sheffield Plate). The base metal is likely copper or nickel silver, indicated by the uneven yellowish 'bleed' through the silver layer on the neck.
Dimensions
Estimated Height: 25-30 cm. Weight: Approximately 800-1100 grams. It appears to be a standard 4-6 cup coffee pot size.
Description
An ornate Late Victorian coffee pot featuring heavy scrolls and floral engravings. The piece stands on four lion-paw style feet and features a central cartouche with an engraved coat of arms. The patina shows significant evidence of use, with the base metal peeking through the silver layer, adding an antique character.
Key Features
Rococo 'C-scroll' cartouche, paw-shaped feet ('lavorata zampe'), bulbous finial, and engraved heraldic crest on the side.
Material & Composition
Silver Plate (Electroplated Nickel Silver - EPNS or Sheffield Plate). The base metal is likely copper or nickel silver, indicated by the uneven yellowish 'bleed' through the silver layer on the neck.
Finish & Decoration
Repoussé and chased decoration in the Rococo style. Features acanthus leaf motifs, C-scrolls, floral bulb finial, and a decorative cartouche containing an engraved heraldic shield (Crest/Armorial).
Hallmarks & Stamps
Not clearly visible in photo; likely stamped on the bottom with 'EPNS', 'Sheffield', or an alpha-numeric maker's mark consisting of symbols (shield, crown, or initials).
Construction Details
Machine-pressed body with cast elements. The feet, handle, and finial are likely cast separately and silver-soldered to the main body.
Functional Features
Hinged lid with thumb rest, long pouring spout, and four-point 'zampe' (paw/hoof) feet for stability. The high neck is designed specifically for coffee to allow sediment to settle.
Handle & Grip Details
Silver-plated hollow handle with an ornate scroll design. Includes a thumb rest. Integrated heat-stop insulators (bone or ivory) are not visible, suggesting the handle may get hot during use.
Craftsmanship Details
Standard Victorian industrial craftsmanship. Fairly complex assembly of cast and pressed parts with hand-engraved armorial details in the cartouche.
Authentication Indicators
The 'Sheffield' label is a retail descriptor rather than a hallmark. High-relief details show softening consistent with plated cast-metal rather than hand-hammered sterling.
Origin & Manufacturing
United Kingdom (Sheffield) or Italy (inspired by Sheffield traditions). The Italian price tag ('Caffettiera Sheffield') suggests it is currently in Italy but identifies its style/origin as British.
Era & Period
Late Victorian Era (c. 1870-1900). Stylistic indicators include the heavy Rococo revival ornamentation and the mass-produced look of the casting.
Age Estimate
Circa 1880-1910 based on the electroplating wear and the specific configuration of the Rococo motifs.
Cultural Significance
A symbol of middle-class Victorian domesticity and the 'social ritual' of coffee service which became increasingly elaborate during the industrial revolution.
Condition Notes
Good antique condition. Moderate to heavy tarnish. Notable 'bleeding' (wear-through of silver plating) on the neck and high-relief areas. Structure appears sound without major dents.
Value Estimate
Market Value: €40 - €85. Factors: Metal content (plated vs sterling), condition of plating, and demand for Victorian tea/coffee service items.
Care & Maintenance
Gentle hand cleaning with warm soapy water and a soft cloth. Use a non-abrasive silver cream (e.g., Wright's). Avoid over-polishing which will remove more silver plating.
Similar Pieces
Sterling Silver versions by Elkington & Co. (higher value) or modern 'Old Sheffield' reproductions by companies like Oneida (lower value).
Interesting Facts
The 'Sheffield' name became such a mark of quality that many 19th-century Italian and German makers adopted the name for their plated wares to increase marketability.