Agatha Christie’s George III Sterling Silver Teapot – Mallowan Family Provenance

London, apparently 1772. George III sterling silver teapot by Robert Hennell I, approximately 454g or 14.6 troy ounces, from the collection of Dame Agatha Christie and Sir Max Mallowan.

A George III sterling silver teapot from the collection of Dame Agatha Christie and her second husband, the distinguished archaeologist Sir Max Mallowan. Of oval form, decorated with foliate engraving and bearing an engraved griffin crest, with hinged cover, wooden handle and finial. Hallmarked for London, apparently 1772, and bearing the maker’s mark of Robert Hennell I. Approximately 454g, or 14.6 troy ounces.

Some expected signs of use, including dents, surface marking and wear; the handle and cover are a little loose.

Provenance: Sir Max and Dame Agatha Mallowan; subsequently retained by their family and offered by direct descent from the Mallowan estate.

In Christie’s fiction, the reassuring ritual of tea frequently carries an undertone of danger: cups are exchanged, drinks tampered with and innocent refreshments transformed into instruments of murder. Tea is mentioned repeatedly in A Pocket Full of Rye, 4.50 from Paddington and At Bertram’s Hotel, giving this personal object an especially evocative connection with the author and her work.

Comes with a Certificate of Authenticity.