Antique silver plate spirit kettles

Unlike the utilitarian copper kettles found in the kitchen, these fancy kettles were an indispensable accessory for the formal tea party, held in the parlour or sitting room. Also known as spirit kettles, they were popular during the whole of the 18th and 19th centuries, and were originally used for replenishing the teapot. They were sometimes one of the components of a tea set, but most examples appearing on the market in Australia are singles. Most stands had four legs, with the burner situated at mid height between the four legs, allowing the presence or otherwise of a flame to be seen. Some kettles were attached to the stand with a chain, secured by a removable locking pin. The burners were removable from the frame for cleaning purposes