Georgian Satinwood Tea Caddy with Conch Shell Inlay
A Georgian satinwood tea caddy featuring conch shell inlay, dating to circa 1790, of rectangular form with elegant canted corners and finely inlaid boxwood flutes to each angle. The exterior is richly decorated with tulipwood crossbanding and delicate boxwood stringing, while both the lid and front panel display oval satinwood cartouches centred by finely inlaid conch shells. Further rope twist stringing frames the panels, adding depth and contrast against the warm satinwood ground. To the front sits a shaped diamond escutcheon housing a secure lock.
The interior opens to reveal a fitted arrangement of twin lidded tea compartments, designed for the separate storage of different teas. Each compartment retains its matching lid with turned bone handles, set within the original fitted interior. The proportions and layout remain particularly pleasing, with the restrained exterior giving way to a well-balanced and practical interior arrangement typical of late eighteenth-century English tea caddies.
A well-executed example from the reign of George III, combining strong colour, refined inlay work, and elegant proportions associated with the finest Georgian tea caddies of the period. The tea caddy remains complete with a working lock and key, with the fitted interior and decorative surfaces surviving well for an object dating to the late eighteenth century, minor surface cracking to the veneer.
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Mark Goodger Antiques has handled Georgian, Regency and Victorian tea caddies for decades, covering examples in tortoiseshell, pressed horn, burr woods, fruitwood, japanned surfaces, Tunbridge ware and silver. Our stock regularly includes sarcophagus forms, bombe shapes, novelty fruit caddies and rare interior configurations.
Through continued study of construction methods, veneer combinations, period inlay techniques and interior composition, we place particular emphasis on authenticity and correct attribution. Understanding which materials were used together, how interiors were finished, and how hinges and mounts were constructed is essential when assessing genuine eighteenth and nineteenth century tea caddies.
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Measurements
11.5cm High x 19.5cm Wide x 11.5cm Deep (4.5 x 7.7 x 4.5 Inches)
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About Mark Goodger Antiques
Founded in 1998, Mark Goodger Antiques is an internationally recognised specialist dealer in antique tea caddies, boxes and accessories. With more than thirty five years of hands on experience buying, selling and restoring antiques, we have built a reputation for knowledge, authenticity and exceptional customer service.
We are proud members of leading trade associations including BADA, LAPADA, CINOA and CADA, and regularly exhibit at prestigious antique fairs throughout the United Kingdom.
Every item we offer is carefully inspected, professionally described and supplied with a certificate of authenticity for complete peace of mind. We also offer free worldwide shipping and are happy to assist with any questions regarding importing or delivery to your destination.
Buy with confidence from one of the world’s leading specialists in antique boxes, tea caddies and fine accessories.