18th/19th Century English Georgian Period Mahogany Tea Caddy

Description

A charming period English George III (1760-1820) mahogany inlaid tea caddy with beautifully aged warm patina.

Tea was of exceptional … more A charming period English George III (1760-1820) mahogany inlaid tea caddy with beautifully aged warm patina.

Tea was of exceptional value prior to the mid-19th century, plus the type of tea you could afford and the vessel you chose to store it in were seen as a great symbol of status. Tea caddies such as this were of course used to preserve the tea leaves, but also to lock it away from the potentially wandering hands of any employees, guests or other travelers.

Hand-crafted in England around the turn of the late 18th / early 19th century, refined Regency era taste, having a rectangular case with hinged lid, in fine quality highly figured mahogany with intricate banding inlays and diamond-form escutcheon, the top opening to reveal a divided interior (typically to hold green tea & black tea) with scattered remnants of the original foil lining. circa 1800

Dimensions:
5" High, 7.5" Wide, 4" Deep

Overall a wonderful example, especially considering its 225 years old. Great original unrestored antique condition with beautifully aged warm rich dark patina. Strong, sturdy, stable, structurally sound. Attractive appearance. Wear consistent with age and indicative of use, including typical minor losses and age related splits to back, scattered remnants of original foil liner. less