Funky angle to the art of pouring a cup of tea

For those with one eye on Christmas there is plenty on offer at Tuesday’s sale – including a German pottery tea service of triangular form, unmarked, but likely to date from the 1950s. Probably completely impractical – but surely what the word funky was invented for.

There is a large and colourful Paisley shawl that would work as both a striking piece of clothing or a throw. Traditionally based on the bright and expensive Kashmir silks of the late 18th century which heavily featured a Persian hooked teardrop shape known as a Boteh.

However the design was adapted from 1800 for use on five colour woollen looms and, as most the popular fabric of this type was made in Paisley, the name of the Renfrewshire town became synonymous with the pattern.

Another lot of similar vintage is a black lacquer snuff box decorated with a pair of hounds. While the habit of taking snuff has largely gone there are always collectors for this form of bijouterie.

You may also be tempted by a pair of Minton Secessionist vases, a highly popular range of pottery created at the turn of the 20th century. Its appeal came partly from being avant-garde but also because the range catered for a wide range of pockets. Estimated at £50-£80.

Tuesday’s sale is at 10am. All Lots subject to Buyer’s Premium of 25.2% including VAT at 20%.

Bearnes Hampton & Littlewood, Exeter; tel: 01392 413100 bhandl.co.uk

German triangular tea set; lacquer snuff box; pair of Minton Secessionist vases