Of large size, the fruitwood pear-form tea
caddy with nicely matched hinged cover and box,
having a circular
grain pattern over each side,
the lid with an upright stem and the
box with steel keyhole escutcheon;
the interior with remains of older or
original foil; retaining original key
Introduced in the
late 18th century, fruit-forms are today probably the most
sought-after of all caddies.
There is conjecture that these caddies
were made in imitation of the early 18th century Chinese pears and
aubergines. English (and German) examples were predominately apples
and pears;
however cantaloupes, aubergines, and even strawberries
and pineapples have been found.
Unlike the Chinese caddies, which
had contrasting woods and screw-on lids,
the European models were
simply polished or varnished,
having loosely fitted hinged lids that
were lifted by means of a stalk -
many of with have been broken or
lost.
The interiors were lined with foil, softly disintegrated
through years of use.
Such is their popularity that many imitations
are still made today.
However this one is
from the late 18th or early 19th century English Georgian period.
Condition : Good to excellent; the hinge
slightly loose, with two minor shrinkage lines to either side of the
hinge;
the stem possibly replaced; waxed surface
6” High
SOLD
#6446
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