19th Century Chinese Export Twin Canister Tea Caddy Table Box

Description

A stunning antique Chinese export tea caddy. circa 1860

Hand-crafted in China for the European market when rare and exotic … more A stunning antique Chinese export tea caddy. circa 1860

Hand-crafted in China for the European market when rare and exotic oriental / Asian style was at the height of popularity in the Victorian era.

Black lacquered octagonal form casket, having a hinged lid with warm hues of burgundy / ebony lacquer, embellished with gold gilt figural and floral decoration, inset diamond shaped brass escutcheon, rising on delicate hand carved giltwood paw feet.

Lifting the top reveals an interior fitted with the original pair of conforming etched pewter lead canisters with circular lids and original pulls.

Provenance / Acquisition:
Property from a very fine private Raleigh, North Carolina estate

Acquired from the highly reputable auction house Black Rock Galleries, based out of Greenwich, Connecticut.

Dimensions: (approx)
4.75" High, 8.25" Wide, 5.75" Deep

Great shape overall, especially considering its age. Highly desirable original unrestored antique condition, elegantly aged, with beautiful distressed patina over the whole, wonderful warmth, depth, and rich antique character. Expected signs of age and use including typical wear, fading, alligatoring to lacquer and minor losses to finish. The liners no longer seal tight. None of the imperfections detract from the aesthetics, but only add to the overall authenticity, sophisticated antique character, elegant rustic warmth and rich historical charm of this lovely museum quality example. less