Chinese Export sterling tea service, c. 1820.

Here is an extremely important Chinese Export tea service made during the China Trade Period, c.1785-1840. There is not a lot of information on this silversmith, but there are a few of his articles in various collections and museums around the world. The marks are imitations of the maker's marks of W.Eley, W.Fearn & W.Chawner, together with the British hallmarks of the period with a date letter of P. All the articles, except the creamer, have identical marks. The two teapots and the sugar are marked on the base. The tureen or butter dish is marked inside the foot. The creamer is unmarked, but matches the set in every way. For more information on this silversmith and his work please refer to the following: 1. The Chait Collection of Chinese Export Silver by J.D.Kernan. 2. Chinese Export Silver by Forbes, Kernan and Wilkins. All in very good condition. The smaller teapot is missing the ivory spacer in the finial. Dimensions: Large teapot: 6" tall by 11.5" handle to spout. Butter dish: 8.5" tall by 8.5" handle to handle. Total weight: 170 Troy oz.