Teapot (part of a set)

This tea set is an example of work done by Paul Storr while working exclusively for the firm of Rundell, Bridge & Rundell, which supplied designs. The set is probably from a design by William Theed II (1764–1817), who was a product of the art school connected with the Royal Academy. He spent time in Rome and Naples before returning to England as a designer, modeler, and sculptor. From 1803, he was principle designer to the Rundell firm. The teapot is inspired by an ancient Roman hand lamp, the spout recalling the form of the wickholders, the hinged cover was added to bring the "lamp" into line with contemporary teapots. Everything about the set suggests massiveness and strength. The armorial achievement of the first owner, Anne Catherine McDonnell, countess of Antrim, is engraved—with two supporters, a "wild man" crowned with ivy and a falcon—and is ensigned with the countess' coronet. The McDonnell crest, separately engraved, appears next to this—an arm bent at the elbow and holding in its right hand a crosslet.