952831

English Tea Caddy Circa 1790 - 1840 #952831

Currency:USD Category:Antiques / Other Start Price:85.00 USD Estimated At:0.00 USD
English Tea Caddy Circa 1790 - 1840 #952831
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Here we have a fine English tea caddy from the late 18th early 19th century. Caddy is in excellent shape with no major dings. Accented by two bronze lion head handles on the side.
Tea caddies denotes the entire genre of tea containers in all styles and materials. The word ?caddy? derives from the Malay Chinese ?kati? which means a measure of tea weighing about a pound and one third. English usage of the term was not widespread until the end of the 18th century, and when introduced probably referred to the box or chest which housed porcelain or metal bottles.

When tea was first introduced in England, it was taken only in small quantities for medicinal purposes. Yet this single imported commodity was destined to inspire almost two centuries of social ritual and decorative arts.

The largest and most diverse group of caddies are the wooden boxes or chests. The high cost of tea assured its status as a luxury item and necessitated a secure container for its storage and display. The construction and decoration of these containers was a reflection of the social rank of the owner. The finest furniture makers were enlisted to produce these boxes, each of which reflected the cabinetmaker?s best work.
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<tr><td>Condition:Excellent</td></tr>
<tr><td>Year:circa 1790 - 1840</td></tr>


<tr><td>Height:5</td></tr>
<tr><td>Depth:3.75</td></tr>
<tr><td>Width:6.5</td></tr>

<tr><td>Title:English Tea Caddy Circa 1790 - 1840</td></tr>



<tr><td>Location:Greenwood, SC</td></tr>
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