George III Satinwood Tea Caddy with Conch Shell Inlay
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This George III Satinwood Tea Caddy with Conch Shell Inlay, dating to circa 1780, is constructed in satinwood and decorated with finely executed marquetry throughout. The front and lid each feature a detailed conch shell inlay set within an oval... Read More
A George III satinwood tea caddy circa 1780, decorated with finely detailed conch shell marquetry, dyed sycamore harewood, boxwood and ebonised stringing.
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Description
Description
This George III Satinwood Tea Caddy with Conch Shell Inlay, dating to circa 1780, is constructed in satinwood and decorated with finely executed marquetry throughout. The front and lid each feature a detailed conch shell inlay set within an oval reserve, framed by fine boxwood and ebonised sycamore stringing.
The green ground surrounding the conch shell inlays is formed from dyed sycamore, historically known as harewood. During the late 18th century, sycamore was coloured using copper based solutions such as verdigris or copper sulphate, producing the distinctive green tone seen here. The surviving colour is particularly attractive, having mellowed naturally over time while retaining much of its original character.
The conch shell marquetry is formed from pale sycamore that has been hot sand shaded. The edges of the individual veneer pieces were placed into heated sand to scorch the timber gradually, creating the delicate brown tonal variations that give the otherwise flat inlay its three dimensional appearance.
The caddy retains a strong, warm surface and well preserved colour across the satinwood and contrasting inlays, with the detailed conch shells providing the principal decorative focus to the front. The front of the tea caddy is finished with a diamond shape bone escutcheon.
Opening the caddy reveals a pine lined interior retaining traces of the silver foil lining with its original maple floating tea compartment lid.
The tea caddy comes complete with a working lock and tasseled key.
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.
This depth of specialism allows collectors to purchase with confidence, whether acquiring a first example or adding to an established collection.
Measurements
12.5cm High x 12cm Wide x 10cm Deep (4.92 x 4.72 x 3.94 Inches)
What is Sycamore Wood?
Sycamore is also known as Harewood is a member of the Maple family, found in Europe. It is light yellow in colour and is often a very clean wood, with a straight, fine grain. The wood is often pippy. However, these pips are usually a very similar colour to the rest of the wood making them hardly visible.
Sycamore vs Harewood – Sycamore refers to the natural, untreated timber in its raw, pale state. Harewood is sycamore that has undergone a chemical dyeing process, historically using copper or iron salts, to transform the timber into a grey or green veneer for fine marquetry.
For further information see our Woods Encyclopaedia on Sycamore Wood.
What is Boxwood?
Boxwood known as “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.
For further information see our Woods Encyclopaedia on Boxwood.
What is the Georgian Era?
The Georgian era was a period in British history from 1714 to 1837, named after the Hanoverian kings George the First, George the Second, George the Third and George the Fourth. Many historians also include the short reign of William the Fourth, whose death in 1837 marks the close of the era. Within this broader period lies the Regency era, which refers to the years when George the Fourth served as Prince Regent during the illness of his father George the Third.
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
Additional information
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| SKU | 501990 |
