Moroccan Traditional Mint Tea Pot and Glass Set with Silver-Plated Tray
Tea/Coffee Service · Traditional Moroccan artisan craftsmanship, unbranded exportware
Pattern: Traditional North African Geometrical and Floral Chased Motif
Type
Tea/Coffee Service
Maker
Traditional Moroccan artisan craftsmanship, unbranded exportware
Material
Silver-plated white metal or nickel silver (Alpacca) over base metal alloy, combined with clear glass tumblers featuring silver-plated filigree or rim decoration
Dimensions
Teapot height approx. 22 cm (8.5 inches), tray diameter approx. 25-30 cm (10-12 inches), total weight approx. 1200-1500 grams
Description
An exquisite Moroccan tea service featuring a quintessential bulbous, lobed teapot with a soaring, swan-neck spout, a distinctive finial, and intricate hand-chased arch and floral patterns across the body. The set is beautifully presented on a circular mirrored serving tray surrounded by a delicate metal gallery, accompanied by a matching set of tall tea glasses adorned with metallic silver-plated sleeves and rims.
Key Features
Traditional Moroccan Berad (teapot) silhouette, tall bird finial, highly ornate hand-chased geometric panels, accompanying glass holders on a mirrored tray
Material & Composition
Silver-plated white metal or nickel silver (Alpacca) over base metal alloy, combined with clear glass tumblers featuring silver-plated filigree or rim decoration
Finish & Decoration
Bright polished finish with hand-chased and engraved geometric, arch, and floral panels, featuring a distinct bird-form finial on the lid
Hallmarks & Stamps
Typically unmarked or stamped with artisan workshop symbols or export compliance marks on the base, lacking traditional Western purity hallmarks
Construction Details
Hand-hammered and raised body sections, soldered spout and handle, die-stamped or cast finial, assembled by hand in traditional North African artisan workshops
Functional Features
Long curved pouring spout designed for aerating and pouring Moroccan mint tea from a height into traditional glasses, hinged lid, insulated handle design
Handle & Grip Details
C-shaped loop handle attached via soldering, designed for thermal separation, matching the metallic body of the teapot
Craftsmanship Details
Hand-chased and engraved decoration showing traditional artisanal techniques, distinct from mass-produced stamped replicas through its tactile depth and variation
Authentication Indicators
Typical artisanal construction methods, hand-chased inconsistencies indicating human hand over machine precision, absence of standard European silver hallmarks
Origin & Manufacturing
Fez or Marrakech, Morocco, produced using centuries-old North African metalworking traditions
Era & Period
Mid to Late 20th Century Tourist and Export Art, reflecting traditional Islamic metalwork motifs
Age Estimate
Circa 1970-2000, consistent with mid-to-late 20th-century artisanal export production
Cultural Significance
Central to North African hospitality rituals, representing warmth, welcoming guests, and centuries of Moorish artisan heritage
Condition Notes
Very good vintage condition with minor surface wear and light tarnish commensurate with age and decorative use
Value Estimate
Moderate market value ranging from $75 to $200 USD depending on the exact metal alloy, age, and completeness of the glassware set
Care & Maintenance
Clean with a mild non-abrasive silver cream or specialized metal polish, hand wash only, avoid harsh dipping solutions to preserve the antiqued background details
Similar Pieces
Middle Eastern brass or white metal tea sets, Turkish samovar sets, and Egyptian Khan El-Khalili metalware crafts
Interesting Facts
Moroccan mint tea, known locally as 'Atay', holds immense cultural significance of hospitality, and the theatrical high-pour method requires specialized spouts found exclusively on these pots