Teapots

Traditions in Elegance: 100 Teapots from the Norwich Castle Museum

January 16 through March 30, 2003**
East Gallery

From simple beverage to social ritual, the humble tea plant has inspired devotion and charmed craftsmen in many cultures. On display is a selection of 100 teapots from the world's finest collection at Norwich Castle Museum in England. You'll see an astounding variety of fanciful, utilitarian, historical, modern, and classical teapots. You'll also see the world's largest teapot made in 1851 for the Crystal Palace exhibition in London. This is the Washington debut and final venue for this traveling exhibit.

**Please note that on March 7, 2003, the exhibit is only open to the public from noon to 1:00 p.m. and from 4:00 to 5:00 p.m. because of special events.

Agate teapot from Straffordshire; about 1750

"London" shape teapot painted in underglaze blue, enamels and gold. From Rathbone, Tunstall, Staffordshire; about 1820

Wedgewood creamware teapot panted in enamel colors; about 1770

"Egyptian Black" stoneware teapot, probably from Birch, Shelton, Staffordshire; about 1800

Chamberlain's Worcester porcelain teapot painted in gold; about 1835

Salt-glazed stoneware teapot painted in enamel colors with a portrait of Frederick the Great of Prussia, Britain's ally against France in the Seven Year's War. The ermine pattern was intended to look royal. From Staffordshire; about 1760