Wedgwood Black Basalt and Encaustic Enamel Rum Kettle

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Wedgwood Black Basalt and Encaustic Enamel Rum Kettle

This very rare round rum kettle was crafted by Wedgwood in black basalt with a molded bail handle
A figure of a shrouded woman, or “Sybil,” crowns the lid and serves as the kettle’s knob finial
Encaustic enamel bands ornament the entire piece in a Classical motif recalling Ancient Greek potter
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$9,850

Item No. 31-0218

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Description

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.

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Specifications

Maker:	Wedgwood
Period:	19th Century
Origin:	England
Type:	Tea & Coffee Pots/Services
Style:	Basalt
Depth:	8.5 in. (21.59 cm)
Width:	11.0 in. (27.94 cm)
Height:	10.5 in. (26.67 cm)