Antique Chinese Export Black Gilt Lacquer Tea Caddy Pewter Canisters Qing 19th C

Overview

An antique Chinese export black and gold lacquer tea caddy with two fitted pewter canisters. The box is octagonal, with canted corners and a stepped, domed lid. The front and back panels show gilt landscapes with pavilions, garden walls, bamboo and plants inside shaped reserves, and each end has a large gilt four-petal flower in a lobed panel. The top of the lid has a scene of figures in a garden setting, framed by a scrolling border with red dot clusters on a gold dot ground. Inside are two fitted pewter canisters with engraved borders, and each has a round lift-off cover engraved with birds and plants. It suits a shelf, sideboard or cabinet, or a collection of Chinese export wares or tea accessories.

Background

Chinese export lacquer tea caddies were made in large numbers for Western buyers during the 19th century, often with gilt decoration and fitted pewter canisters to keep different teas apart. This example is unmarked and unsigned, and is probably mid-19th century. It is of wood construction with brass hinges, a brass lock plate and a front keyhole.

Condition

Fair to poor antique condition, sold as found and not restored. The lacquer on the lid top is lifting and flaking in vertical strips, with large losses to the figure scene; there are chips with exposed wood on the lid edges and corners, cracks to the side panels, a lifted section of lacquer inside the lid, and general scratches, especially on the base, which also has two small square recesses. The pewter canisters are tarnished with some creasing, both covers are present, no key is included and the lock has not been tested. Please see all photos.

Dimensions & Weight

The caddy measures about 4 x 8 x 5.5 inches (H x W x D) and weighs about 1 lb 9.3 oz.

Shipping

Free standard shipping within the US, packed securely.