REGENCY TEA CADDY

Tea was introduced to England by Queen Catherine wife of Charles II in 1662. Tea was and remained extremely expensive for the next 100 years. Wooden Tea Caddies were made early in the 19th Century  and introduced as a home style accessory in the second half on the 18th Century. The word caddy derives from the Malay "kati",a measure of weight about 3/5 of a kilo. The first caddies were in box form, shaped like small chests, and contained two - three metal canisters. They were mostly mahogany but some were walnut. These caddies were designed to house loose tea and locked to keep it safe.

They were of two types: the austere or rococo. Both styles have handles on top and mounted escutcheons. They differ in the more elaborate being the rococo. The austere had bracket feet or a plinth support base. The lids are stepped, the step often concave. The edges are molded and sides mostly straight. 

Offering a Regency Rosewood Tea Caddy, early 19th Century. This is a austere triple caddy with two lidded rectangular canisters flanking a space in the center for a glass bowl.  The side canisters were for storing loose tea and the glass bowl  was either to mix different teas or for sugar. A Regency Caddy dates 1811-1820 when GeorgeIV of England became Regent. The lines are straight and clean with straight molding. It stands on bun feet and has button handles on either side. The center portion can be removed revealing a "secret space" for silver spoons. It has a keyhole and lock but no key. 

It is in excellent condition with honest wear. The dimensions are : 7.5"T, 14"w, 8"D.

# H3A-0021

$325.00