Qianlong Era, 1796 Andreas E. van Braam Houckgeest (1739-1801) was a Philadelphia merchant born in Holland. In an apparent display of affection for his adopted country, he presented this tea service to Martha Washington after returning to Philadelphia from China in 1796 aboard the Lady Louisa. The ship's manifest includes a notation for a box of china for Lady Washington. Her monogram is superimposed on a sun with rays radiating to fifteen ovals linked around the rim. A wreath of olive and laurel leaves circles the monogram above a ribbon inscribed "Deus Et Tutamen Ab Illo" (Honor and Defense come from It). Each of the ovals encloses the name of a state, and the traditional Chinese Symbol of eternity, the serpent biting its tail, is at the edge. Martha Washington's will contains instructions for "a set of tea china that was given me by Mr. Van Bram (sic) every piece MW on it" to be left to her grandson George Washington Parke Custis. 7 1/4 in. Diameter. From Cowperthwaite Family Trust to present consignor.

Additional comments added on 2/24/22: Highly important plate, gilt wear, no damage or repairs Gilt and age appropriate wear