Teapot

This oval-shaped pot with a C-shaped dark wooden handle and straight spout is by Hester Bateman, one of the finest English silversmiths. Characteristic of her work is the bright-cut engraving and beading, which aligns with the Neoclassical trends of the late 18th century.
Hester Bateman (bap. 1708 – 16 September 1794) was an English silversmith, renowned for her high quality flatware and ornamental silverware. On 20 May 1732 she married John Bateman, a gold chain maker and wire drawer. John Bateman died of consumption (tuberculosis) in 1760, leaving his tools to his wife in his will. She took over the family business and registered her own first hallmark at the Goldsmith's Hall in 1761, simply "HB" in script. She was succeeded by her sons, daughter-in-law, grandson and great-grandson. The Bateman family silversmithing company lasted until the middle of the nineteenth century.