Teatime is a very British tradition, so a British themed teapot is a natural. Over the years, British style teapots from James Sadler have not only brought that theme to teatime tables everywhere, the teapots have become collectibles. Designs range from a wonderful racing car teapot to a teapot shaped like the head of King Henry VIII.
When you think of Britain, what images come to mind? Here are a few possibilities: Pomp, circumstance, the changing of the Palace Guard, kings, queens, London’s Big Ben and the Tower (there’s a restaurant near one of the entrances that serves a fabulous steak and kidney pie). Britain also has a varied and picturesque countryside where thatched roof cottages can be found in abundance. The famed Piccadilly Circus (a circular intersection in London with a very interesting atmosphere) also has worldwide fame. Let’s not forget the royal residences such as Windsor Castle. Of course, there is the Shakespeare Cottage, the birthplace of this famous playwright and poet and now a museum.
Air travel these days is a bit tricky and tests one’s willingness to undergo a few “procedures” that are intended to assure a safe journey. If you want to see these classic images of Britain first hand, you need to purchase your ticket, arrive at the airport two to three hours early (don’t forget your passport), endure the long flight in a cramped space in front of a young child kicking the back of your seat or next to someone coughing incessantly, land in Heathrow Airport and spend two or three more hours deboarding and going through Customs, then fight for a taxi to take you to your hotel where they claim they never heard of you and there is no comfy room awaiting you, then…
Sometimes, seeing things first hand can be overrated. Personally, I’d rather buy a James Sadler Collectible Teapot sporting a design of one of these well-known images. Some of the designs are so special that you almost hesitate to serve from them, but go ahead. These teapots relish the opportunity to steep up some fragrant Earl Grey or hearty Scottish Blend for the enjoyment of your guests.
You can add a bit of royal architectural flair with a teapot design inspired by Windsor Castle or the Tower of London. Rule the teatime with a design portraying Queen Elizabeth I, King Henry VIII, or Queen Victoria. Celebrate one of the great cities of our modern world with a Piccadilly design, or one portraying Big Ben, or the city of London itself. Prefer a cozy cottage or lodge? Sadler’s designs include several. There is even one celebrating one of the giants of 19th century English literature: Charles Dickens.
The teapots hold on average 20 ounces of delicious tea. Get a couple of teapots and steep up two different teas to give your guests a choice. Now, that’s a double delight!
One word of caution: these are very special teapots and not intended to be used in the microwave. You should also wash them by hand. Enjoy!
Read more great articles on A.C.’s blog, Tea Time with A.C. Cargill!
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