Edwardian Tortoiseshell Tea Caddy by Martin Hall & Co

Description

An Edwardian tortoiseshell and silver tea caddy by Martin, Hall & Co, dating to 1904, of compressed octagonal form with a gently domed lid surmounted by a substantial silver carrying handle. The exterior is extensively decorated with intricate silver ribbon work, scrolling foliate decoration and floral motifs across each panel, standing prominently against the rich tortoiseshell ground. The silver mounts are fully hallmarked sterling silver for Martin, Hall & Co of Sheffield with the date letter M for 1904.

Opening the tea caddy reveals a fitted interior with a single lidded tea compartment designed for the storage of loose leaf tea. The compartment retains its original silver foil lining beneath the lid, complementing the silver mounted exterior and surviving well throughout.

A decorative example of early twentieth century English silver mounted tea ware, combining elegant proportions with detailed silver work associated with Edwardian tortoiseshell tea caddies of the period. The silver mounts, fitted interior and tortoiseshell veneers remain in pleasing condition throughout.

View the full Tea Caddy Collection.

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.

Measurements

8cm High x 11cm Wide x 8cm Deep (3.15 x 4.33 x 3.15 Inches)

What is Tortoiseshell?

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.

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.

What is Sterling Silver?

Sterling silver refers to the alloy of metal containing 92.5% pure silver and 7.5% other metals, usually copper or zinc. Sterling Silver objects are stamped with the 925 mark to confirm their authenticity.

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Why Buy from Mark Goodger Antiques?

With over thirty five years of specialist experience, Mark Goodger Antiques is recognised internationally as a leading authority in antique boxes and related works of art. Every item offered has been personally selected by Mark, whose knowledge and judgement are trusted by collectors, institutions, museums, interior designers, and fellow dealers worldwide.

Every purchase is supplied with a full supporting package for clarity and reassurance. This includes a Certificate of Authenticity, a detailed condition and care guide specific to your item, our most recent catalogue, and a separate invoice suitable for insurance and valuation purposes. Each piece is carefully examined prior to sale to ensure accuracy of description and quality.

Your purchase is fully insured during transit and protected by our straightforward money back guarantee, allowing you to buy with complete confidence. We pride ourselves on transparency, expertise, and long term relationships with our clients, many of whom return to us repeatedly over decades.

When you buy from Mark Goodger Antiques, you are purchasing from a specialist family business built on knowledge, trust, and an unrivalled focus on antique boxes.

Additional information