Only a few decades earlier, silversmiths throughout Europe had begun crafting small and decorative teapots that quickly became popular throughout Scandinavia and England because of the durability of silver. An early example held by the Victoria and Albert Museum in London is associated with the East India Company and inscribed 1670. The triangular-shaped teapot spun from the ewer and gave way to the Queen Anne and Georgian styles, which are still regarded as the traditional designs for silver teapots. These teapots—and their more affordable pewter counterparts—are thought to have evolved during the 18th century.
More commonplace in today’s kitchens, however, are ceramic teapots, like the handmade Brown Betty teapot, whose origin dates back to the 17th century and which remains a classic English piece. Made of English red clay and fired and glazed to create a unique finish, the Brown Betty is manufactured in Staffordshire, England, and is renowned for its ability to retain heat. Variations on the Brown Betty style can be found in glazed and unglazed ceramic and in stoneware, with stainless-steel strainer inserts.
I have read many of your magazines and I have a subscription. I do not remember seeing any advice on whether a decorative porcelain teapot can be kept warm using a tea warmer (with a tea candle). Would the flame harm the teapot?
We recommend checking with your teapot’s manufacturer for information on tea warmers, as the best options vary from product to product.
Where can I purchase the tea pot floral shown in the tea time magazine for February?
We include a very detailed resource guide on page 63, which is included in the back of every issue. There you may find information on all of the products pictured in the magazine.
Tea & teaware has come a long way from that time. However, a tea tastes the best in a stoneware teapot.