An early set of sterling silver coffee or tea set comprising a coffee or tea pot, a cream jug and an open sugar bowl. Designed and made by William Spratling in Taxco, Mexico and dated to his first design period 1944-1946 indicated by the various hallmarks from that period on each piece. The design reflects the robust character of his early work and also the use of local exotic wood for handles. The form is generous and bulbous with subtle hammered effect, The coffee pot has a hinged lid and the visible pins on the handles. It measures 9" w x 5" d x 8.5" h. The creamer and sugar measure approximately 5.5" w x 3.5" d x 3" h and 6" w x 3.5" d x 3" h, the total weight is about 40 oz t.