A particularly handsome Georgian cube-shaped tea caddy, of superior craftsmanship. It is veneered in satinwood, which gives a rich glow. Inlaid into the front is a delightfully shaded shell, of satinwood surrounded by harewood and a slim band of boxwood. It has a somewhat clumsily set in escutcheon which overlaps the top of the shell. Each side of the front has four bands inlaid of alternating harewood and boxwood; and a single band top and bottom of harewood. Inlaid into the top is an oval of satinwood and harewood. Centered in the medallion is a brass drop-ring handle, which screw pokes into the interior. There is thin boxwood stringing to each edge of the caddy. Inside can be seen the scribe marks for the lock and some of the original lining. The interior shows the pine construction which lies under the veneer. The caddy had been poorly handled at some time, for one of the hinges is bent and its top sits off a bit, although it closes neatly with lock pin sat properly in its slot. Some of the veneer and inlay has altered position slightly from differing rates of shrinkage, and a few cracks have resulted, which is typical to multiple surfaces, as each wood shrinks at its own pace and to its own degree. There is a small flaw to the front from the lockplate screw, and an even tinier spot the other side where the screw has pushed a little outward but not broken through. The flaws should be visible in the images, and more images are available if needed. There is an aroma of old, old wood to the inside, yet it isn't a musty smell. Altogether a superb example of the Georgian cabinet-maker's work. Dimensions 4.75"/12cm tall, 4.5"/11.5cm wide, 4"/10cm depth.

Weight:296g/10.5oz.