Georgian Burr Yew Tea Caddy

Description

Georgian burr yew tea caddy dating to circa 1785, of rectangular form veneered throughout in beautifully figured burr yew and edged with boxwood stringing. The exterior is distinguished by its canted corners, each inlaid with tea plant decoration, whilst tulipwood cross banding frames the panels throughout.

The front and lid retain finely executed inlaid reserves, one depicting a conch shell and the other a bird amongst foliage, positioned above and below the central bone escutcheon. The contrast between the rich burr yew veneers, pale boxwood stringing and decorative inlay creates a particularly attractive appearance typical of high quality late 18th century tea caddies.

Lifting the lid reveals a fitted interior containing two lidded tea compartments, each veneered in matching burr yew and retaining their original turned handles. The use of burr yew across both the exterior and interior gives the caddy a cohesive appearance throughout.

The combination of burr yew veneers, tulipwood cross banding and tea plant inlay creates an attractive contrast across the exterior surfaces, with the canted corners providing an unusual decorative feature.

The tea caddy is supplied complete with its working lock and key.

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View the full Tea Caddy Collection.

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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.

This depth of specialism allows collectors to purchase with confidence, whether acquiring a first example or adding to an established collection.

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Measurements

13cm High x 19.5cm Wide x 11.5cm Deep (5.12 x 7.7 x 4.53 inches)

What is Burr Yew Wood?

Burr Yew wood originates from Asia, Europe and North Africa. It is yellow-brown to orange-brown and usually conforms to a fine uniform pattern. Yew wood usually has black pips scattered throughout so clean veneers fetch a high price and are reserved for finer items. A few trees will produce a burr which offers a distinct decorative finish.

For further information see our Woods Encyclopaedia on Burr Yew Wood.

What is Tulipwood?

Tulipwood is also known as Brazilian Tulipwood, Brazilian Pinkwood and Bahia Rosewood. It is found in South America, mainly Brazil. The colour is warm yellow with streaks or brown-red grain.

For further information see our Woods Encyclopaedia on Tulipwood.

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.

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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

Dimensions	19.5 × 11.5 × 13 cm
Country	England, United Kingdom
Provenance	This tea caddy was exhibited at the East India Company, 7/8 Conduit Street, Mayfair, London W1S 2XF
Year	Circa 1785
Period	18th Century, George III, Georgian
Medium	Boxwood, Burr Yew, Tulipwood
SKU	323280