WMF Hotel Silverplate Individual Teapot, 0.30L
Tea/Coffee Service (Tea/Coffee Pot) · WMF (Württembergische Metallwarenfabrik), founded 1853 in Geislingen, Germany. Renowned for industrial-scale metalwork and high-quality hotelwares.
Pattern: WMF Hotelware/Catering Line; simple, functionalist design intended for commercial use.
Type
Tea/Coffee Service (Tea/Coffee Pot)
Maker
WMF (Württembergische Metallwarenfabrik), founded 1853 in Geislingen, Germany. Renowned for industrial-scale metalwork and high-quality hotelwares.
Material
Silver Plated (likely EPNS or Nickel Silver base). The '63' stamp may indicate the amount of silver used in the plating process for a batch.
Dimensions
Standard single-serving size; approximately 300ml capacity (0.30L); weight estimated 350-450g.
Description
An authentic mid-century individual teapot from WMF's prestigious hotel division. This piece features the clean lines and heavy-gauge plating typical of European luxury hospitality wares of the era.
Key Features
Distinctive 'WMF HOTEL' stamp, metric volume marking (0.30L), and high-durability hospitality-grade silver plating.
Material & Composition
Silver Plated (likely EPNS or Nickel Silver base). The '63' stamp may indicate the amount of silver used in the plating process for a batch.
Finish & Decoration
Polished silverplate finish; minimalist and utilitarian with no ormolu or embossing; mid-century functionalism style.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Stamp features 'WMF' logo (post-1925 variant), 'HOTEL' indicating the commercial line, '0,30L' for capacity, and numerical stamp '63'.
Construction Details
Machine-manufactured; spun body with a soldered spout and handle; industrial-grade construction for durability in hospitality.
Functional Features
Individual-sized pouring spout, hinged lid (partially visible), and a capacity-stamped base for inventory control.
Handle & Grip Details
Solid-core silverplated handle, C-curved for ergonomics, soldered directly to the body at two points.
Craftsmanship Details
Precision machine-finished with industrial soldering; designed for longevity and frequent chemical sanitation rather than hand-wrought artisan aesthetics.
Authentication Indicators
Genuine WMF factory stamps; consistent wear patterns on base; industrial solder joints typical of the 20th-century German manufacturing.
Origin & Manufacturing
Geislingen, Germany; WMF Factory. Known for German precision and heavy-duty silver plating standards.
Era & Period
Mid-20th Century (likely 1950s-1970s), characterized by the streamlined, non-ornamental 'Hotel Silver' aesthetic.
Age Estimate
Circa 1950-1965 based on the specific WMF trademark style and the 'HOTEL' font.
Cultural Significance
Represents the post-war boom in European tourism and the standardization of luxury service in continental hotels.
Condition Notes
Good condition; visible surface scratches and 'flea bites' consistent with commercial use; light tarnish; no significant plating loss visible on base.
Value Estimate
$25.00 - $60.00 depending on the condition of the interior and the completeness of the lid.
Care & Maintenance
Clean with mild silver cream; avoid abrasive pads; hand dry immediately to prevent water spots; safe for frequent use if polished gently.
Similar Pieces
Bauscher or Christofle Hotel Silver; WMF pieces are typically more utilitarian and robustly built compared to French counterparts.
Interesting Facts
WMF was the world's largest producer of domestic metalware by 1900 and became a leader in 'Cromargan' stainless steel later, though they maintained silverplate lines for high-end hotels.