William Townsend Irish Rococo Sterling Silver Coffee Pot, Dublin c. 1760's

A stunning example of 18th c. Irish silver is this pear-shaped coffee pot with carved, wooden handle. Swirling flutes traveling up the body define the panels and add vertical movement.

Various hand chased and repousséd foliate and floral scenes are beautifully executed within the swirling vertical spaces. Complimentary decoration adorn the pedestal base and the hinged, stepped-dome lid which is surmounted by a wonderful artichoke finial. Integrated into the design is an exceptional spout in the form of a dragon with expressive face, scaly chest and wings. One side has a reserve with an engraved crest of an arm clad in armor clutching a dagger.

This rare coffee pot is marked on the neck with the maker's mark 'WT' along with the Harp and Hibernia marks. The lid is marked with the Hibernia mark. It measures 10.5 inches high, weighs a hefty 34.85 troy ounces and is in excellent antique condition.