An Early 19th Century Engine Turned Red Earthenware Teapot that is Similar to Artifacts Recovered in Philadelphia

Since today is July 4th, I thought I would show another object from my personal collection that seems to be related to artifacts recovered by archaeologists within a nineteenth century context at Independence Park in Philadelphia.

According to the National Park Service in Philadelphia as-well-as Independence Park archaeologist and materials specialist, Debbie Miller, "New research has revealed that nineteenth century potters in Philadelphia had the skill and technology to produce a variety of refined forms including teapots and coffee pots with intricate geometric decoration that could only be produced on an engine turning lathe."

This refined nineteenth century red earthenware teapot is thought to be related to similar artifacts, which were excavated at the site of Independence Park in Philadelphia in the twentieth century, where those objects are also thought to have been locally produced in Philadelphia. Although, similar artifacts have also been recovered at other sites in the city, as well. The following teapot also retains a history of ownership in Pennsylvania.

Some of the aforementioned artifacts were scheduled to undergo scientific testing in order to prove that this style of production undoubtedly happened in Philadelphia - but I am not sure that information has been published, yet. I know the results were schedule to be published in the American Ceramics Circle; although, I have not seen the published article.

Nevertheless, this is definitely an interesting aspect of nineteenth century American pottery production, where this teapot would have likely been previously interpreted as an example of English production probably from the late eighteenth century.

Note: The form of this teapot and the engine turned decoration is very similar to an example that was recovered by archaeologists at Independence Park in Philadelphia in the twentieth century (see below). The lid is also believed to be original

Engine Turned Red Earthenware Teapot

 19th Century Century Engine Turned Red Earthenware Teapot Likely Attributed to Philadelphia

Retains a History of Ownership in Pennsylvania

Similar Objects Have Been Excavated by Archaeologists at Independence Park in Philadelphia

Those Artifacts are Also Thought to Have Been Locally Produced

See Article for More Information

View of the Handle

View of the Lid

View of the Base

Philadelphia Artifacts from Independence Park

Various Objects Recovered at Independence Park in Philadelphia

 Photo Courtesy: Debbie Miller & Independence Archaeology Lab - Philadelphia

(Circled) Very Similar Artifact when Compared to the Teapot Above

Recovered in a 19th Century Context at Independence Park in Philadelphia

See Article for More Information

 Photo Courtesy: Debbie Miller & Independence Archaeology Lab - Philadelphia

Please Stay Tuned...Much More to Come...