952833

Regency Mahogany Tea Caddy Late 19th Century #952833

Currency:USD Category:Antiques / Other Start Price:180.00 USD Estimated At:0.00 USD
Regency Mahogany Tea Caddy Late 19th Century #952833
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Regency Mahogany Tea Caddy from the late 19th century. This rare collectible features bun feet and brass lion's head handles. What makes this piece so valuable and desirable is that it still has the original glass center bowl for mixing.
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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#: caddy3</td>
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<tr><td>Condition:Excellent</td></tr>
<tr><td>Year:Late 19th Century</td></tr>


<tr><td>Height:6.75</td></tr>
<tr><td>Depth:6</td></tr>
<tr><td>Width:10.5</td></tr>

<tr><td>Title:Regency Mahogany Tea Caddy Late 19th Century</td></tr>



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