Expert: Martin G Roberts - 3/14/2009

Question
We have a pewter tea pot about 6 1/2" tall with a circumference of 14 1/2". It has a hinged lid with a flower on a stem finial. The base is supported by four legs. It says "James Allan Sheffield" on the bottom with a number which may be "856". Can you give us an estimate of when it was crafted? Does this piece have any value?

Answer
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Hello Susie,

Your teapot was made in Sheffield, England, by James Allan, a Britannia metal worker active 1849-72. 856 is the pattern number.

Britannia metal is a pewter alloy used in fabricating from sheet metal rather than casting. Sheffield was the principal centre of Britannia metal working from the late 18th Century onwards.

Pieces by James Allan are not especially scarce, and late period Britannia metal (from about 1850 onwards) is not greatly sought after by collectors unless it is very unusual. So value, if in excellent condition, will be less than 50 pounds / 100 dollars, and much less if there are any condition problems.

Hope that helps.

Martin
www.antique-metalware.co.uk