The wooden handle was carved by me from 200 year old wood, duplicating the forms of the wooden handle on the original Paul Revere Teapot. The slanting sockets with sterling silver wire trim hold the carved, maple wood scroll handle.

The monogram on the side of the teapot references how in Revere’s day, a monogram on the side of a teapot proved ownership and made silver hollowware difficult to steal or be sold without a trace. It was a relatively safe way to store one’s wealth when banks were unstable, private enterprises. In “Silver” Preferred, the monogram is the embossed trademark of the product from the tin can. The market value of the trademark reflects the values of our consumer society.

Today, where does artistic concept and content fit into the question of value? Is “silver” preferred as a medium for the same reasons as 200 years ago? What does it mean to own a sterling silver teapot in the 20th century? Is silver a store of value or a symbol of value? Changing values transform our society. Changing society transforms our values.

Underneath the lid, the top says: "TIN AND LID RETURNABLE CHARGED 2/ APPLIES TO UK ONLY"

Silver Preferred Teapot