Description:
A Mid 19th century Continental Straw work single  tea caddy

Origin: Continental Europe

Circa: 1850

Materials: Split straw on a pine carcass. 

Size: It measures  5.5 inches wide  by   5.5 inches deep and it is  4.9 inches  high: 14 cm wide by 14 cm deep by 4.9 cm high.

Condition: good over all but some losses as is usual in such a fragile material.

The top has a depiction of a wreath of roses in micro- mosaic of cut straw. The sides are decorated with panels of straw parquetry.

See: http://www.hygra.com/material.htm#str 

 

On account of the fragile nature of the material it is unreasonable to expect to find these boxes in perfect condition.  These wonderful boxes have a great period look and are well worth treasuring and enjoying for their sheer beauty.

The front and sides have the straw laid out in a parquetry pattern. 

The patterns are formed by juxtaposing the pieces of straw to catch the light.

Detail of the embossed gilded brass escutcheon.

 The underside is also covered in split straw.

The top has a depiction of a wreath of roses in micro- mosaic of cut straw.