Moroccan Koutoubia Teapot by S.A.L.A.M. (Theieres Koutbia)
Tea Service (Teapot / Berrad) · S.A.L.A.M. (Societe d'Aluminium et de Laminage de l'Afrique du Maghreb), a major North African manufacturer known for durable household silver-tone items.
Pattern: Koutbia (Theieres Koutbia), an iconic Moroccan design named after the Koutoubia Mosque in Marrakech.
Type
Tea Service (Teapot / Berrad)
Maker
S.A.L.A.M. (Societe d'Aluminium et de Laminage de l'Afrique du Maghreb), a major North African manufacturer known for durable household silver-tone items.
Material
Silver-plated brass or aluminum. While the finish is a bright silver-tone, the presence of 'S.A.L.A.M.' usually indicates high-quality plating or polished base metal rather than solid sterling silver.
Dimensions
Standard medium-sized teapot, approx. 15-20cm tall; weight varies depending on base metal, typically 500-800 grams.
Description
This is a classic Moroccan 'Berrad' teapot from the famous Koutbia line. It is designed specifically for the preparation and ceremonial pouring of Maghrebi Mint Tea. The 'Theieres Koutbia' mark is synonymous with durability in Moroccan households.
Key Features
The distinctive circular S.A.L.A.M. mark, the curved Moroccan spout designed for high pouring to create foam, and the hallmark name 'Koutbia'.
Material & Composition
Silver-plated brass or aluminum. While the finish is a bright silver-tone, the presence of 'S.A.L.A.M.' usually indicates high-quality plating or polished base metal rather than solid sterling silver.
Finish & Decoration
Mirror-polished exterior finish. Likely features traditional Moroccan hand-chasing or engraving (floral/geometric) on the body, though the hallmark is on a smooth base.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Circular stamp featuring Arabic script (top), 'MARQUE DEPOSEE' (Registered Trademark), 'THEIERES Koutbia', and 'FABRIQUE S.A.L.A.M.'
Construction Details
Machine-cast or spun body with hand-soldered legs, spout, and handle. Industrial production combined with traditional Moroccan shaping.
Functional Features
Includes a built-in filter at the base of the long curved spout for tea leaves, three or four curved decorative legs, and a hinged lid.
Handle & Grip Details
Hollow metal handle, likely C-shaped, often requires a textile grip when hot as it lacks ivory/wood heat stops.
Craftsmanship Details
High-quality industrial craftsmanship with careful hand-assembly of functional components like the spout and legs.
Authentication Indicators
The presence of the 'Marque Deposee' and 'S.A.L.A.M.' stamps are consistent with authentic mid-tier Moroccan tea production.
Origin & Manufacturing
Morocco (likely Casablanca or Marrakech), produced according to traditional Maghreb hospitality standards.
Era & Period
Modern / Mid-to-Late 20th Century (Post-Colonial North Africa).
Age Estimate
Circa 1970-2000. The font and stamping technique suggest a modern industrial production line.
Cultural Significance
Central to the Moroccan tea ceremony (Atay), representing hospitality and social bonding across the Maghreb region.
Condition Notes
Very Good. The hallmark remains crisp, and the base shows typical light surface scratches from use. No significant pitting or wear-through of the silver-tone finish is visible in the image.
Value Estimate
$40 - $120 USD depending on the intricate nature of the side decorations and the size.
Care & Maintenance
Hand wash only. Use mild silver polish if the plating begins to dull. Dry immediately to prevent water spots or tarnish on the base metal.
Similar Pieces
Hand-hammered Fez silver teapots (often solid silver or heavier plating) vs. tourist-grade souvenir teapots (which lack the reputable S.A.L.A.M. stamp).
Interesting Facts
The Koutoubia (Koutbia) mosque is a symbol of Marrakech; naming the teapot after it signifies quality and regional pride in Moroccan craftsmanship.