BRIGGS FAMILY TEA SERVICE

The Briggs Family Tea Service represents a family that was forged and defined by the turbulent nature of Van Diemen’s Land during the early years of colonisation. This family depicts a microcosm of the many varied aspects of the colonial and Aboriginal relationships that were being forced and forged throughout Australia during this period of our history.

A tea-pot and sugar bowl represent the parents, George Briggs of Dunstable in Bedfordshire and Woretermoeteyenner of the Pairrebeenne people of North East Van Diemen’s Land. The milk jug and eldest daughter, Dolly Mountgarret Briggs takes on the characteristics of both parents, and the three tea cups represent John and Woretermoeteyenner’s other three children, Eliza, Mary and John Briggs.

Commissioner – Broached Commissions

Material – Porcelain, bull kelp, wallaby pelt, brass and copper

Production – Sydney, Illawarra and Launceston, Australia

Makers – Vicki West, Rod Bamford and Oliver Smith

Public Collection – Tasmanian Museum and Art Gallery

Image Credit – Scottie Cameron