tea

shelf 1

Invented in Russia in the mid-1700s, samovars are large urns typically made of brass. A vertical chamber filled with burning charcoal runs through the middle of the urn, heating the water. The heat rises up the chimney, on which a pot of very strong tea is set to steep. Once poured into cups, the tea can be diluted with water from the spout at the bottom of the urn.

 

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A dark brown and white ceramic teapot with protruding feet, a spout, handle, and lid. The finial on the lid is connected to the handle by a chain.

English

Tortoiseshell Ware Teapot, ca. 1750–1765

Earthenware with glaze and gilding

Bequest of Mr. Charles L. Pendleton 04.337

A brown ceramic pitcher with a spout, handle, and multiple delicate feet. There are swirly floral decorations.

English

Tortoiseshell Ware Cream Pitcher, ca. 1750–1765

Earthenware with glaze and gilding

Bequest of Mr. Charles L. Pendleton 04.202

A cylindrical teapot with an elaborate design of flowers inside diamond shapes of varying colors. A thin, square shaped handle with a flat top sits above the teapot.

Chinese

Teapot, 1800s

Porcelain with glaze, enamels, and gilding

Gift of Doris Duke’s Southeast Asian Art Collection 2004.12.15

A brass and wood tea instrument that has a decorative foot, lid, various handles and rings, and spout. The entire vessel has highly decorative engravings.

Persian

Samovar, 1800s

Brass and wood

Bequest of Martha B. Lisle 67.397ac

 

 

shelf 2

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