18th century parquetry tea caddy
18th century parquetry tea caddy
6806
An 18th century mahogany parquetry tea caddy with two inner canisters with sliding lids.
Tea caddies have a rich history dating back to the 17th century, when tea was first introduced to Europe and considered a luxury item. Early tea caddies were often crafted from precious materials like porcelain, silver, or fine wood and featured intricate designs. They were used to securely store loose tea leaves, protecting them from moisture and preserving their flavour.
Lockable lids were common, reflecting tea's high value. In the 18th century, as tea became more widely consumed, caddy styles diversified, ranging from simple wooden boxes to elaborate Georgian and Victorian designs. Today, antique tea caddies are prized collectibles world wide.
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