The silver teapot was established with the introduction of tea, spices and luxury goods from China into Europe during the 17th Century. Silver teapots designs were inspired from Chinese stoneware and porcelain teapots which accompanied the imported tea. Small silver teapots were produced as this reflected the importance of serving and the expense of acquiring tea. Teasets and services evolved to make the occasion of drinking tea a grand occasion. Grates were introduced at the intersection of the spout and body of the teapot to retain the loose tea leaves while pouring. The teapot handles were made from carved fruit wood or silver. Teapots with silver handles had ivory separators between the handle and the teapot body to create a thermal break, enabling the hot silver teapot to be picked up and poured.
