A wonderful 18th Century George III quill work (scrollwork) tea caddy of hexagon form.English Circa 1790Finely executed, this very attractive caddy of hexagon form of satinwood construction having glazed and decorated panels of paper scrolls and gilt rolled paper also known as quill-work. Decorated with flowers and leaves with a painted silk portrait of a young girl with a flower in hand. The surrounding panels and top decorated conformably with a ebony stringing and checkered banding to the top which opens to reveal an interior pull out shelve and velvet lined interior. Normally used as a tea caddy this looks to have been used a possibly a jewellery casket and the velvet lining looks to have been in there for a long time possibly shortly after being made.A wonderfully decorative object that has survived in excellent condition. As mentioned below these where often made open for wealthy ladies of leisure (never practised by a �working-class� women!) to infill with the art of quillwork, with this example being extremely fine.Quilling or paper filigree is an art form that involves the use of strips of paper that are rolled, shaped, and glued together to create decorative designs. The paper is rolled, looped, curled, twisted, and otherwise manipulated to create shapes that makeup designs. In the 18th century, quilling became popular in Europe where gentle ladies of quality (''ladies of leisure'') practiced the art. It was one of the few things ladies could do that was thought not too taxing for their minds or gentle dispositions.Width 7 1/2 inches - 19cm Height 5 inches - 13cmDepth 4 1/2 inches - 11cmLoveday Antiques is a family run business originally established since 1969 in London. Now in its second generation, Loveday Antiques specialises in an eclectic mix of 18th to 20th Century European furniture and works of art, with a strong emphasis on quality, uniqueness and colour.As proud members of BADA & LAPADA, the largest association for professional art and antique dealers in the United Kingdom and members of CINOA, the worldwide association for antique dealers you can buy from us with 100% confidence and reassurance as we are committed to upholding and abiding by the strict standards of each association. Our clients can rest assured that each item is as described and photographed. All Items are sold with 100% satisfaction 14 day money back guarantee, return delivery will be charged for. We deliver within the UK for usually between �60-�80 and ship worldwide with professional bespoke crating via air to almost all locations. Please contact us at Loveday Antiques with your full postal address for a very competitive quote. Delivery within the mainland UK will usually be with 7 to 14 days but please allow up to 28 days. We also ship worldwide with a professional bespoke crating service and large International couriers via air and sea to almost all locations. Please contact us at Loveday Ant...