An early 19th Century Sarcophagus-shaped penwork caddy, the hipped lid and body with finely worked floral and fauna decor, revealing an interior with a chinoiserie-inspired family scene above two lidded tea storage compartments to either side of a mixing bowl, all on bronze lion paw feet and two lion head handles to sides. In excellent original condition
England, circa 1820
When tea was first introduced to Europe from Asia, it was extremely expensive and was literally kept under lock and key. The containers used were often expensive and decorative, intended to be seen and displayed in a drawing-room or other such reception room. As tea became cheaper and more readily available there was less concern with the appearance of caddies and as a result they fell out of use, with tea storage being relegated to the kitchen
Height: 7 in. (17.78 cm)
Width: 11 in. (27.94 cm)
Depth: 5.5 in. (13.97 cm)