Full view of this teapot modeled after a Paul Revere teapot. My teapot titled, “Silver” Preferred, is a 21st century counterpart.
The aura of a Paul Revere teapot exists because of the value of the metal, the fame of the creator, and the craftsmanship in fabrication.

In “Silver” Preferred, the values that made a Revere teapot special are reappraised, reexamined, and reassembled. My teapot does not seek value in its materials (tin cans), but asks us to re-evaluate how an object is valued in our material culture.
Does value exist by how something is made; by who made it; by what materials are used; or is valued created by marketing and consumption?

Values change over time. The context today is not the same as 200 years ago. In Revere’s day, for example, a monogram in metal proved ownership and made silver hollowware difficult to steal and be sold without a trace. It was a safe way to store one’s wealth. In “Silver” Preferred, the monogram is the embossed trademark of the product from which the tin can bottom was taken. The market value of the trademark reflects the values of our consumer society.

Today, where does artistic concept and content fit into the question of value? Is “silver” preferred for the same reasons as 200 years ago? Is silver a store of value or a symbol of value? Changing values transform our society. Changing society transforms our values.

Teapot is elliptical-shaped and seamed using multiple panels of tin from the bottom of recycled tin cans.

The embossed monogram on side is from recycled popcorn tin bottom.

Separate lid is domed with flange, embossed with manufacture’s monogram “Shucks” from tin can bottom.

Slanting sockets with sterling silver wire trim hold carved, maple wood, scroll handle.

Wooden handle carved by Berman from 200 years old scrap wood.

Pineapple finial constructed from tin plated steel recycled from tin cans, sterling silver wire and ball.

8.5” height including finial x 10” height of wood handle x 18.5” length spout to handle.
Private Collection