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Wedgwood Black Basalt and Encaustic Enamel Rum Kettle

About the Item

Crafted by Wedgwood, this rare, round-shaped rum kettle is comprised of black basalt and features a molded bail handle and glazed interior. Referred to as “the widow,” a “Sybil” figure of a seated woman covered head-to-toe in a shroud sits atop the kettle lid and serves as its knob finial. Terra-cotta red and white encaustic enamel bands of anthemion, or palms, decorate the entire piece in a clear homage to Classical motifs of Ancient Greek pottery. During the Georgian era, rum was mixed with hot water, lemon and sugar to create a libation known as “Grog.” This fine kettle would have been used to serve this body-warming tipple in chilly English weather, circa 1800 Stamped "WEDGWOOD" 11" wide x 8 1/2" deep x 10 1/2" high Provenance: The Starr Collection.
  • Creator:
    Wedgwood (Maker)
  • Dimensions:
    Height: 10.5 in (26.67 cm)Width: 11 in (27.94 cm)Depth: 8.5 in (21.59 cm)
  • Style:
    Classical Greek (In the Style Of)
  • Materials and Techniques:
  • Place of Origin:
  • Period:
  • Date of Manufacture:
    circa 1800
  • Condition:
  • Seller Location:
    New Orleans, LA
  • Reference Number:
    Seller: 31-02181stDibs: LU891118904612
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