Whiting Sterling 3 pc. Tete-a-tete Tea Service in the Japanese Taste, NYC, c. 1882

This beautiful tea set is shaped like traditional Japanese tea equipage made from pottery. Its strong low horizontal design and swing handles are both features of Japanese tea sets. The all over repoussé decoration is in the western taste and these pieces show a wonderful melding of the two styles. A moth (not butterfly), popular in Japanese design, is featured in the repoussé work.

Each piece is monogrammed underneath 'SJC' in an artistic block style. The creamer and sugar are also dated 1882. Underneath, they also bear the inscription: 'JEB 1919' in a cursive script. This service is in excellent antique condition, the creamer and sugar retaining their original interior gilding (somewhat worn). The teapot measures 3.5 inches high and 6.25 long over the spout. Combined, the set weighs 18.1 troy ounces.