Georgian Yew Tea Caddy with Floral Inlaid Decoration, 1780

A Fine Quality George III Period, Late 18th Century, Yew Wood Tea Caddy Of Octagonal Form, Having Lift Up Lid Enclosing Two Divisions And Exceptional Floral Inlaid Deocration To Oval Panels On Top, Front And Corners.

This georgian tea caddy is typical in terms of the elongated octagonal shape and the two division interior however the floral inlaid decoration found in various areas is really extremely well executed and a particularly fine detail which certainly adds to the elegance and appeal of this particular little tea caddy. It has no doubt been carried out by an extremely skilled craftsman with great attention to detail.

Of course the yew wood veneers are another superb feature lifting it to a level above similar mahogany examples because of how decorative it is.


Tea was a precious commodity throughout the 18th and 19th centuries and the purpose of a tea caddy was not just to preserve the and extend the life of the precious tea leaves, but also to enable the owner to lock away those aforementioned valuable tea leaves, keeping them safe from the house staffs potential wandering hands.

This 18th century yew wood tea caddy has been inspected and attended to by our highly skilled, specialist antique furniture restorers and received a natural wax polish before being offered for sale. The tea caddy also comes with working lock and key.

Circa 1780.

Height 5in.
Width 7.5in.
Depth 4.25in.