A fine First Period Worcester tea canister, dating to circa 1775. Of lobed form with flat shoulders and short neck, decorated in underglaze blue with the ''Pinecone and Fern'' pattern - a lesser-seen floral design from Worcester’s botanical series of the late 18th century. The lid was originally topped with a small rose-shaped finial, typical of Worcester canisters of this period. The glaze is slightly bluish and smooth to the touch, and the cobalt blue painting remains fresh and clear. The factory''s underglaze blue crescent mark is present to the underside. Such tea canisters were used in the 18th century to store expensive loose leaf tea, then considered a high-value luxury commodity. This well-preserved piece demonstrates the refined craftsmanship of early Worcester and is of strong interest t...