An Very Fine Single Compartment Tea Caddy of Circa 1790

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Antique Boxes in English Society
1760 -1900
by ANTIGONE
Tea Caddies and Tea

Tea Caddies and Tea

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A Very Fine single Compartment Tea Caddy circa 1790

A very fine one compartment inlaid George III Tea Caddy circa 1790 of octagonal form veneered in various woods including maple and burr yew. The hinged top and large sides inlaid with medallions containing specimen burr wood the canted corners having blind flute inlay.

The caddy is in very good original condition and has a working lock.

The caddy is 12.75 cm high, 12.5 cm wide and 10 cm deep;
5 inches high by 4.9 inches wide and 4 inches deep.

	The three dimensional effect of blind flute inlay is achieved by scorching the maple. The light and shade on the design is done by dipping the inlay elements into either hot sand or lead.

	Detail showing direct inlay into the wood and fine stringing and cross bandings. Note the use of natural green.
	The top of the box has faded to a beautiful mellow patina with a warm glow. It still retains its wax finish.
	The inner lid continues the medallion motif of the outside.
	These inlaid Georgian caddies are often faked or ruined by refinishing. This is a good example of an original Georgian Caddy with original finish. I have posted further information on Fakes and Abuses on the web. The inside has been cleaned and retains very little of the original lead lining.
	Top view showing the inlay and the contrasting lines.

For the historical context of this caddy read the relevant part of Antigone's Online Antique Box Book. If you click here you will go there.