George II Bullet Teapot Made in London by John Swift in 1734

The “Bullet” shaped Teapot is one of the best known shapes of the George II period and this represents an early example of its form. This very fine teapot has a globular shaped main body which stands on a cast and applied foot, decorated with reeding. The facetted, cast, straight spout has a moulded lip and displays a triple drop at its base. Twelve strainer holes are pierced on the interior of the main body, where the spout is attached. The facetted and scalloped handle sockets are attached to the main body and the fruitwood scroll handle. The circular flat cover is attached to the main body with a flush three part hinge. The finial consists of a cast and applied spool shaped moulding, a removable flattened wooden ball, and a silver bolt with a cast baluster top, secured by an interior wing nut. The Teapot is of the finest quality, as would be expected from this maker. It is in quite excellent condition and has a very good colour. It is fully marked in the foot and with the sterling mark on the inside of the cover. The front is engraved with a contemporary Armorial, surrounded by a trellis and foliate scroll work cartouche

John Swift was apprentice to Thomas Langford, William Paradise and Thomas Searle. He was free on 10th June, 1725. His first mark was entered between May and October 1728, with workshops in Staining Lane when this piece was made. His work appears to have been chiefly hollow ware, tankards, coffee pots and teapots with an attractive repertoire of the Rococo on some pieces. His work is mainly of very fine quality in terms of design and production.

Additional information:
Height: 4.8 inches, 12 cm.
Length, handle to spout: 8.1 inches, 20.25 cm.