George II English Sterling Silver Rococo Tea or Hot Water Urn,  hallmarked for Francis Butty and Nicholas Dumee, 1759, London. The urn's tall cover, upper body, and square base all feature elaborate floral repousse decoration, with engraved crest, chased leafy decoration to the pedestal, and additional gadroon and reticulated designs at the base. Two naturalistic handles extend from the sides while the spout is decorated with acanthus overlay and has a removable carved handle with brass stopper, and the cover is topped by a flame finial; all are supported on four figural ball and claw feet. Body and cover both hallmarked. Weight (excluding handle): 81.00 oz troy. 21 1/2 in. H x 12 in. dia.

Repairs at finial and both handles. Break and repair to reticulated base decoration. The spigot handle, which is a separate piece from the urn, is possibly original and appears functional (turning it controls the flow of liquid), but neither originality nor functionality is guaranteed, and the handle is not marked in any way.

The estate of Dr. W. Harwell Murrey, Middle TN.