Chinese Export Black Lacquer Tea Caddy - 19th Century

This gilt Chinese Export tea caddy was made in the middle of the 19^th century for wealthy members of the British Georgian upper class in the Qing dynasty. Tea caddies were particularly in fashion for wealthy members of high society who wanted to store their valuable and exotic teas. The detailed gilt black lacquer work was made using the maki-e technique and required a high level of technical skill. Tea caddies were often gifts from traders and merchants who traveled to China & the Far East to make their fortunes. 

This intricate and detailed work was made for export to Britain when Chinoiserie was all the rage. Black lacquer export sewing kits and games boxes were also made. 

These pieces are fragile pieces of history and are usually found damaged. This caddy has been checked over in our workshop and small restorations made to stop the aging process. There is some wear conducive with age to the top of the box. Please check photographs for further details. 

Inside, a zinc tea caddy set can be found with covers and carved bone handles. 

 
Dimensions:

23 x 16.5 x 13 (wxdxh cms)

References: 

A similar example and further information can be found in The Decorative Arts of The China Trade by Crossman, Plate 156. 

From China

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