Hey Readers,
In a recent “Find of the Week” photo I shared a few pieces I came across in early May (seen to the left).
I was strolling down Elgin Street (close to Somerset Street) in Ottawa when I decided to hit up a used store (St. John’s Community Store) that I used to frequent back in the day when I worked in the area. This store is a hidden gem!
The first thing that caught my eye was a country classic blue and white vase (which I purchased) and on the way out I noticed a unique teapot and ashtray. I back tracked, looked at the two pieces for a full five minutes and said why not grab them.
The Chinese dragon teapot is early-mid 20th century and boasts ornate detailing as well as copper and brass. I enjoy a cup a tea here and there and thought this was fun-ky. Tea originated in China in the 16th century and was mainly used for medicinal purposes. In later years (17th century) it became popular in Britain and eventually gained stamina in India. I found the history of tea quite fascinating. Once I buff this sucker up I may sit down and enjoy some green tea.
I was curious as to resale value so went on the hunt. The same teapot with lid in working order is selling between $80-$110 online. It is a pretty unique object but needs to be in good working condition to hold it’s value -like anything.
The ashtray that I found with the teapot though similar in looks and materials does not feature any dragons on it but has other animal faces on it. Could it be a Yak – the official animal of Tibet? I am unsure!
The smoke tray was (and is) way more difficult to decipher. What I do know is that it would fetch between $35-50 based on some comparable items I have seen.
Did you know ashtrays only made friends with our coffee tables in the 20th century? I was surprised by this as I guess I was thinking there were commonly used in the way earlier years. I don’t smoke but have friends and family that do so I think I should keep this. Its way better than having them improvise with a Pepsi can.
I grabbed these two items for $6 in total so at the end of the day would say I learned a ton and gained a little – since this are going to be sitting on my shelf.
Come back tomorrow for my rundown of the G.G.G – Great Glebe Garage Sale.
pieceandquiet.ca 
I’m wondering if that ashtray you found with the copper teapot, is actually something to put a candle in to keep teapot warm? Would the teapot sit on top?
Thank you for your comment. It is very possible however I don’t have it anymore to try it out. I have seen some like that but this one was not as obvious. Interesting I may never know…