Russian teapot, Gardner ware, 1880 (c)

This teapot was part of a service reputedly acquired by Major-General (later Field Marshal) Frederick Roberts during the 2nd Afghan War (1878-1880).

Glazed earthenware teapot and lid, made by Gardner of Moscow, 1880 (c). White, with mid blue glaze and painted decoration. In circular cartouches on either depictions of flora in colour; question mark handle. The manufacturer's name is spelt, 'Gardiner'.

To a British Victorian soldier the service probably represented Moscow's influence in, trade with and hunger for Afghanistan. The geographical position of the latter, straddling as it did the passes through the Hindu Kush to India, made British control and influence there, as opposed to Russian, a vital strategic consideration for policy makers.

Francis Gardner, an English banker, founded his porcelain manufacturing company near Moscow in 1766.