This fanciful silver gilt steam kettle has the form of a swan sitting on its nest. The escape valve is on the swan’s back and is topped with a standing figure or putto holding a wreath. The swan and nest have chased details of feathers and leaves. The attached stand has four scroll feet that support a gas jet in the middle.
Silver 17th-19th C.
Swan Steam Kettle
Unknown Maker
Swan-Form Steam Kettle c. 1860
silver, gold
14.75 x 9.5 x 7.5″
Kamm Collection 2009.9.1
Photo: courtesy of Sotheby’s