Object Description
A fine and elegant Regancy George IV rosewood and amboyna wood marquetry sarcophagus tea caddy with carved solid rosewood lion paw feet and original fittings.
Entirely decorated in marquetry of wild flora, the moulded caddy top of pyramid form is surmounted with a moulded arc decorated in the same style. The frieze is raised on a moulded base with intricately carved lion paw feet to each corner and is decorated in marquetry with opposing deer to the centre below a circular mother of pearl escutcheon. The sides are fitted with solid rosewood turned ring handles.
The caddy opens to a beautifully decorated interior of marquetry compiling of two lidded removal tea caddies that glide into place to each side and a cut crystal mixing bowl to the centre.
This is an extremely accomplished example of this form of English antique tea caddy.
The term ‘caddy’ is believed to have derived from the word ‘catty’, which is the Chinese equivalent to just over a pound.