Description

Decorated with Classic Scenes

From our Tea Caddy collection, we are thrilled to offer this Georgian Henry Clay Octagonal papier-mache Tea Caddy. The Tea caddy decorated to the exterior with a central scene showing seated classical figures and cherubs. The top and bottom with Entwined diaper borders that are repeated on the hinged, silvered-handle top. The interior features a floating lid with a mounted silvered handle. Although unsigned we firmly attribute the Tea Caddy to renowned London maker Henry Clay. The Tea Caddy dates to the Georgian period during the reign of George III circa 1800.

The Tea Caddy comes complete with a working lock and tasselled key.

Henry Clay was an assistant to one of the pioneers in papier-mache by the name of John Baskerville who started to imitate the highly polished items, that were being imported from Japan, using lacquered papier-mache. Which would become known as “japanning”. By 1772 Clay had learned enough to start up his own business and in the same year patented a new process for making “paperware” which involved sheets of paper being soaked in paste and pressed together on a plate. Once separated from the plate they were baked in a hot stove to remove any flexibility, whilst at the same time being coated in varnish or oil. The final product was used like wood, and once coated with colour and oils could be polished to a high shine. Around 1785 Henry Clay acquired a retail premises in London’s Covent Garden. George III was one of his patrons by 1792 and Clay adopted the title “Japanner to His Majesty.”

Papier Mache is a man made material consisting of paper pieces bound with an adhesive, such as glue, starch, or wallpaper paste.

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