Miniature William IV Chinoiserie silver teapot

Antique silver miniature square teapot in the Chinese style with panels depicting blossom trees in relief. The hinged lid is connected to the handle by a chain. This is a rare piece and is in excellent condition.

First appearing in the 17th century, the aesthetic Chinoiserie trend was popularised in the 18th century due to the rise in trade with China and East Asia and reflected the European interpretation and imitation of Chinese and East Asian artistic traditions.

Chinoiserie is related to the Rococo style both of which are characterised by exuberant decoration, asymmetry, a focus on materials and stylised nature. Chinoiserie focuses on subjects of leisure and pleasure that were thought by colonial-era Europeans to be typical of Chinese culture.