Koutbia Brand Silver-Plated Moroccan Teapot by S.A.L.A.M.
Hollowware, Tea Service (Moroccan Teapot / Berrad) · S.A.L.A.M. (Société d’Aluminium et de Laminoir au Maroc), a major Moroccan manufacturer known for producing traditional kitchenware and tea services for the domestic and export markets.
Pattern: Koutbia (named after the famous Koutoubia Mosque in Marrakesh), a standard traditional pattern featuring classic Moroccan silhouette and embossed floral/geometric motifs.
Type
Hollowware, Tea Service (Moroccan Teapot / Berrad)
Maker
S.A.L.A.M. (Société d’Aluminium et de Laminoir au Maroc), a major Moroccan manufacturer known for producing traditional kitchenware and tea services for the domestic and export markets.
Material
Silver-plated brass or nickel-silver alloy. The base metal is likely a copper-based alloy to provide durability for heat conduction, electroplated with a thin layer of silver.
Dimensions
Estimated height: 15-20cm; Capacity: 400-800ml depending on size. These pieces are weighted for stability but are generally lighter than solid sterling counterparts.
Description
A classic Moroccan 'Berrad' teapot manufactured by S.A.L.A.M. under the Koutbia brand name. This vessel is central to the Moroccan tea ceremony, designed for steeping 'Atay' (green tea with mint). Its bulbous body and long spout allow for the tea to be poured from a height to create the signature froth in the glass.
Key Features
Distinguished by the circular Koutbia brand stamp on the bottom and the prominent use of French and Arabic labeling, characteristic of Moroccan industrial metalware.
Material & Composition
Silver-plated brass or nickel-silver alloy. The base metal is likely a copper-based alloy to provide durability for heat conduction, electroplated with a thin layer of silver.
Finish & Decoration
High-polish mirror finish with traditional Moroccan engraved or embossed Arabesque motifs around the body and spout. Likely features a hinged lid and a curved, goose-neck spout designed for high-altitude pouring.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Stamped with 'MARQUE DÉPOSÉE' (Registered Trademark), 'THÉIÈRES Koutbia' (Koutbia Teapots), 'FABRIQUÉ S.A.L.A.M.' (Made by SALAM), and Arabic script translating to the brand name and 'Insha'Allah' or similar blessing.
Construction Details
Industrial machine-stamping and die-striking. The body is formed in two halves or a single piece, with the spout and feet (if present) soldered on. The lid is attached with a simple pin hinge.
Functional Features
Includes a built-in internal strainer at the base of the spout to filter loose tea leaves and mint; heat-conductive handle meant to be held with a cloth.
Handle & Grip Details
Cast metal handle, typically curved in a C-shape, soldered to the body. Often features a decorative finial on the lid for easy lifting.
Craftsmanship Details
Higher quality than generic souvenirs; the stamping is clear and deep, and the soldering is tidy. It represents high-quality industrial fabrication rather than artisan hand-wrought silver.
Authentication Indicators
The presence of the S.A.L.A.M. factory mark is a definitive indicator of its Moroccan industrial origin. It is commerce-grade silver plate, not sterling silver, as indicated by the lack of fineness marks (e.g., .925).
Origin & Manufacturing
Morocco, specifically Casablanca or Fes, where S.A.L.A.M. operates. It reflects the industrialization of traditional Moroccan metalcraft.
Era & Period
Late 20th Century to Contemporary. This is a modern mass-market production of a centuries-old traditional Maghrebi design.
Age Estimate
Circa 1970 to present. The style of the typeface and the 'Marque Déposée' indicate a modern manufacturing period.
Cultural Significance
The teapot is the heart of Moroccan hospitality. The Koutbia brand represents the transition of Moroccan craft from hand-beaten village work to standardized urban production that maintains traditional aesthetics.
Condition Notes
Very Good. The surface shows light scratches consistent with cleaning. The silver plating appears intact with minimal 'bleeding' of the base metal. Minor tarnish visible in the stamping recesses.
Value Estimate
$30 - $70 USD. Value is driven by utility and decorative appeal rather than silver weight, as it is a plated piece produced in large quantities.
Care & Maintenance
Wash by hand with mild soap; avoid abrasive pads which will strip the silver plating. Use a soft cloth with a mild silver polish like Wright’s Silver Cream to maintain the shine.
Similar Pieces
Hand-hammered Fes teapots (custom-made, heavier, more irregular), Egyptian plated teapots (different spout shapes), and French Christofle hotel silver (different cultural style).
Interesting Facts
S.A.L.A.M. is one of the most recognizable names in Moroccan households, often seen as the 'standard' for daily-use tea services rather than purely ornamental silver.