Description:
TC143: 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.

Origin:  UK Circa: 1790 Materials:

Size: 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.

Condition: good overall,  working lock and key,  see images.
As each person has different criteria and antiques by their very nature have wear  please enlarge the images and ask for extra information as needed. 

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.

The combination of woods, the effective use of yew for the ovals, and the general quality of such pieces can point to early Tunbridge work.

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.

The top of the box has faded to a beautiful mellow patina with a warm glow. It still retains its wax finish. 

Detail showing direct inlay into the wood  and fine stringing and cross bandings. Note the use of natural green.

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.

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