Red Tortoiseshell Tea Caddy

Description

George III Circa 1790

From our Tea Caddy collection, we are delighted to offer this George III Red Tortoiseshell Tea Caddy. The Tea Caddy of small rectangular form is composed of beautiful red Tortoiseshell panels framed with boxwood rope work stringing and edged in ivory, the exterior is finished with a small silver loop handle surmounted on the lid. When opened the Tea Caddy reveals a single tea compartment containing a Silver foil lining faced in ivory and boxwood. This rare surviving example dates to the late 18th century Georgian period during the reign of George III Circa 1790.

Literature Mark Goodger Antiques The Exceptional Catalogue Page 19

Tortoiseshell describes a type of decorative material made from the shells of certain species of sea turtles. The shells of these turtles are composed of a hard, glossy substance called keratin, which can be cut and shaped into a variety of decorative items. Tortoiseshell has been used for centuries to make a range of decorative objects, including combs, brush handles, and other small items. It is also sometimes used to make tea caddies, as it is strong, durable, and can be polished to a high shine. The term “tortoiseshell” is used to describe these decorative items, even though they are made from the shells of sea turtles because the term has been used historically to refer to this material.

Boxwood “Buxus sempervirens” can be found in Europe, Northwest Africa and Southwest Asia. It is a light cream that turns darker to brown when exposed to light. The trees are very small meaning it is suited to smaller projects like edging or inlay instead of veneers.

Georgian era was a period in British history dating from 1714-1837, known as the Georgian era after the Hanoverian kings George I, George II, George III and George IV.

If you are purchasing Tortoiseshell or Ivory pieces and are outside the UK you must have a CITES certificate in order to import the item into your country. We can obtain these on your behalf at a cost of £50 and these can take up to 30 working days to arrive at our office. Due to the strict exporting rules of these pieces, they may also come with further shipping costs. Please ensure you contact us prior to purchase for a quote.

With every purchase from Mark Goodger Antiques, you will receive our latest catalogue, a Certificate of Authenticity, detailed care instructions for your chosen piece and an independent invoice (for insurance purposes) will be enclosed. As well as being protected by a no-hassle, money-back policy, your piece will be entirely insured during the shipping process to ensure the safety of your item.

Additional information