Expert: Irene Schwall - 5/30/2010

Question
What is stamped on the bottom of the teapot is as follows.. above the trade mark stamp are 4 letters .The 1st letter is indistinct the other letters are what looks like, EGB with a line under the B. In the centre of the bottom is either a boar or a lion head.Underneath the head are letters that were stamped over other letters. It is quite indistinct. There are 5 symbols under that The 1st symbol is an A the 4th symbol looks like a fleur de lis .I can't make out the other symbols.Underneath the symbols are the numbers706.

There is an embossed design on the 3 pieces and they are all footed. there is a finial on the tea pot which looks like a stylized  rosebud. The creamer and the sugarer do not have markings on their bottoms.

This was given to me as a gift and I would like to know who made it and when and also if I have to insure it, what would I insure it for? I thank you in advance for you attention.

Answer
Hello Bea,
It is almost impossible for me to help you without actually seeing photos of the hallmarks.
Please try to photograph them or at least draw the marks on paper and then scan and attach to the query.
I am thinking that your tea set is English but again it is not possible for me to be sure without seeing the hallmarks - there are thousands of them and letters date to years.
My expertise is in antique needlework tools, thimbles and also hallmarks.  I cannot give you a value on a tea set, sorry.
Irene