Impressive English Georgian Period Conch Shell Flame Grain Mahogany Single Tea Caddy of outstanding quality and workmanship and compact size. Circa 1790.
The hinged lid cross banded in satinwood, fabulously inlaid with a central oval cartouche outlined in boxwood with large Conch shell inlay to center, the front area with similar detailing.
Condition: Good condition with nice patination and no losses, almost all the lead lining inside has worn away, the lining inside lid was added later which is nicely done. Lock is present, a later key is also present but does not activate the lock.
Height: (entire) 4.5" (10.5cm). Width: (at top rim) 5.5" (14cm). Depth: 4” (10.5cm).
Location: Dublin City, Ireland.
Affordable fixed charge Worldwide Store to door shipping offered by seller in –house
NOTE: Conch Shells have a history of being used in tea-related items, most notably as decorative inlay on 18th-century tea caddies, with the motif symbolizing Britain's growing naval power. The association with shells also comes from the practice of merchants including a real scallop shell in tea chests for sampling, which inspired the design of early caddy spoon.