What is the history of the antique silver tea caddy?

Tea caddies originated in the 17th century when tea was a rare and costly commodity imported from Asia, requiring secure, lockable containers to protect the valuable leaves from theft and moisture.

What traditional materials and construction methods were used for 19th-century tea caddies?

These pieces were typically crafted from sterling silver using techniques such as casting, repousse, chasing, and hand-engraving, often featuring fitted locking mechanisms and interior compartments.

How can one identify authentic antique silver tea caddies from the 19th century?

Authenticity is determined by examining hallmarks stamped on the metal, which indicate the maker, assay office, standard of silver, and year of manufacture, alongside period-appropriate wear and construction techniques.

How can an antique silver tea caddy be styled in a modern interior?

This piece can be displayed as a focal point on a mantlepiece, sideboard, or coffee table, contrasting its intricate historical details with clean-lined contemporary furnishings.

What is the correct method for the care and preservation of antique silver?

Preservation involves regular dusting with a soft microfibre cloth, minimising handling with bare hands to prevent tarnishing oils, and using specialized silver polishes sparingly only when necessary.

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A Magnificent Antique Solid Silver Tea Caddy/sugar Box Large & Heavy - 19th C.

Name: A Magnificent Antique Solid Silver Tea Caddy/sugar Box Large & Heavy - 19th C.
Brand: Antique
SKU: SA1157754
Price: 1450 GBP
Availability: SoldOut

19th century

Sold by Artisan Antiques

Sold 16 October 2025 · Artisan Antiques

This “Magnificent Antique Solid Silver Tea Caddy/sugar Box Large & Heavy - 19th C” found a buyer.

It was listed by Artisan Antiques. Sold pieces stay on Sellingantiques as a record of what has passed through, and the next one is rarely far away.

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19th Century Silver Caddy Antique Sterling Caddy Antique Sugar Box Ask the dealer for something similar

Description

We are delighted to offer this magnificent solid silver tea caddy/sugar box made in the most ornate and profusely decorated fashion, likely of continental origin in the mid-19th century.

The box is made from a fabulous gauge of silver with an exceptionally hefty and sturdy quality to it (for caddy connoisseurs, it is equally comparable to J.E. Terrey's heavy boxes in terms of its quality and weight). In hand, it feels as if holding a silver bullion bar almost to the extent it could also serve as a paperweight.

In addition to its intrinsic silver quality, its decorations, form and embellishments are equally impressive with no side left undecorated. The box features a plethora of curved, scrolled and swag form motifs. Very intricate yet bold chased floral and foliate motifs accentuate the overall appearance, presenting a majestic look.

The top lid features a wonderful bud finial and upon opening, the interior reveals a fully gilt (gold on top of solid silver) interior which not only serves as an aesthetic contrast but protects the silver from tarnishing and reacting with the contents held within.

Owing to its generous size yet practical form, aside from its original intended function of a tea caddy, it could be used to store sugar, confectionery or small articles in the most opulent fashion.

Furthermore, it would grace any dining table and immediately elevate the splendour of an ambience whether it be solely for decoration or as part of a collection.

Overall, a spectacular and exemplary piece of antique silverware with an impressive array of desirable traits - ideal for box collectors or those wishing to add a single impressive piece to their interior.

One small hallmark (unidentified) is present on the base of the box.

*Please note: all images with other items are for display purposes only, this listing is for the item mentioned in the title.

Size

Size (cm) L:15cm W:11.4cm H:14cm

Size (inches) L:5.90 W:4.48 H:5.51

Weight: 607 grams (19.51 Troy oz)

Condition

Excellent Condition - The box remains in a wonderful excellent condition with no damage or issues. Very minor surface scraches commesurate with age - all decorations remain very sharp and crisp.

We aim to overemphasize and state these issues to avoid disappointment and thus please rest assured they are not significant nor affect the usage of the items.

Please refer to the photographs to examine the condition in further detail.

Free Shipping

Artisan Antiques offers free global shipping with professional, secure and discreet packaging.

We will always ensure your items are packaged with the utmost care and see the delivery through to the end. In the very rare and unfortunate case of non-delivery/courier loss, you are fully covered with us and we will fully refund you.

*All parcels are insured - please rest assured all shipping liabilities other than import/customs duty are covered by Artisan Antiques.

*Colours of the product may slightly differ from the photos due to different computer screens & lighting conditions*

- Price negotiations may be possible under certain criteria, please contact us via telephone (07578761640) or email (info@artisanantiques.net) -

Declaration

Artisan Antiques has dated this Antique Silver Tea Caddy to the 19th Century.

Reference Numbers

Sellingantiques Reference

SA1157754

Dealers Notes

We strive to provide inimitable first-class service with your needs and satisfaction as our number one priority.

Description

We are delighted to offer this magnificent solid silver tea caddy/sugar box made in the most ornate and profusely decorated fashion, likely of continental origin in the mid-19th century.

“

The box is made from a fabulous gauge of silver with an exceptionally hefty and sturdy quality to it (for caddy connoisseurs, it is equally comparable to J.

Artisan Antiques

E. Terrey's heavy boxes in terms of its quality and weight). In hand, it feels as if holding a silver bullion bar almost to the extent it could also serve as a paperweight.

fig 1. An ornate, repousse-decorated 19th-century sterling silver tea caddy resting on a reflective black surface. — fig 1. A Magnificent Antique Solid Silver Tea Caddy/sugar Box Large & Heavy - 19th C.

In addition to its intrinsic silver quality, its decorations, form and embellishments are equally impressive with no side left undecorated. The box features a plethora of curved, scrolled and swag form motifs. Very intricate yet bold chased floral and foliate motifs accentuate the overall appearance, presenting a majestic look.

fig 2. An ornate, repousse-decorated 19th-century sterling silver tea caddy resting on a reflective black surface. — fig 2. A Magnificent Antique Solid Silver Tea Caddy/sugar Box Large & Heavy - 19th C.

The top lid features a wonderful bud finial and upon opening, the interior reveals a fully gilt (gold on top of solid silver) interior which not only serves as an aesthetic contrast but protects the silver from tarnishing and reacting with the contents held within.

fig 3. An ornate, repousse-decorated 19th-century sterling silver tea caddy resting on a reflective black surface. — fig 3. A Magnificent Antique Solid Silver Tea Caddy/sugar Box Large & Heavy - 19th C.

Owing to its generous size yet practical form, aside from its original intended function of a tea caddy, it could be used to store sugar, confectionery or small articles in the most opulent fashion.

Furthermore, it would grace any dining table and immediately elevate the splendour of an ambience whether it be solely for decoration or as part of a collection.

fig 4. An ornate, repousse-decorated 19th-century sterling silver tea caddy resting on a reflective black surface. — fig 4. A Magnificent Antique Solid Silver Tea Caddy/sugar Box Large & Heavy - 19th C.

Overall, a spectacular and exemplary piece of antique silverware with an impressive array of desirable traits - ideal for box collectors or those wishing to add a single impressive piece to their interior.

fig 5. An ornate, repousse-decorated 19th-century sterling silver tea caddy resting on a reflective black surface. — fig 5. A Magnificent Antique Solid Silver Tea Caddy/sugar Box Large & Heavy - 19th C.

One small hallmark (unidentified) is present on the base of the box.

Please note: all images with other items are for display purposes only, this listing is for the item mentioned in the title.

Size

Size (cm) L:15cm W:11.4cm H:14cm

fig 6. An ornate, repousse-decorated 19th-century sterling silver tea caddy resting on a reflective black surface. — fig 6. A Magnificent Antique Solid Silver Tea Caddy/sugar Box Large & Heavy - 19th C.

Size (inches) L:5.90 W:4.48 H:5.51

Weight: 607 grams (19.51 Troy oz)

Condition

Excellent Condition - The box remains in a wonderful excellent condition with no damage or issues. Very minor surface scraches commesurate with age - all decorations remain very sharp and crisp.

fig 7. An ornate, repousse-decorated 19th-century sterling silver tea caddy resting on a reflective black surface. — fig 7. A Magnificent Antique Solid Silver Tea Caddy/sugar Box Large & Heavy - 19th C.

We aim to overemphasize and state these issues to avoid disappointment and thus please rest assured they are not significant nor affect the usage of the items.

Please refer to the photographs to examine the condition in further detail.

fig 8. An ornate, repousse-decorated 19th-century sterling silver tea caddy resting on a reflective black surface. — fig 8. A Magnificent Antique Solid Silver Tea Caddy/sugar Box Large & Heavy - 19th C.

Free Shipping

Artisan Antiques offers free global shipping with professional, secure and discreet packaging.

We will always ensure your items are packaged with the utmost care and see the delivery through to the end. In the very rare and unfortunate case of non-delivery/courier loss, you are fully covered with us and we will fully refund you.

fig 9. An ornate, repousse-decorated 19th-century sterling silver tea caddy resting on a reflective black surface. — fig 9. A Magnificent Antique Solid Silver Tea Caddy/sugar Box Large & Heavy - 19th C.

All parcels are insured - please rest assured all shipping liabilities other than import/customs duty are covered by Artisan Antiques.

Colours of the product may slightly differ from the photos due to different computer screens & lighting conditions*

Price negotiations may be possible under certain criteria, please contact us via telephone (07578761640) or email (info@artisanantiques.net) -

Date of Manufacture

Artisan Antiques has dated this Antique Silver Tea Caddy to the 19th Century.

Reference Numbers

Sellingantiques Ref

SA1157754

About the Dealer

Artisan Antiques

Sellingantiques verified Since Dec 2020

Artisan antiques based in london, brings to you a global selection of fine antique silverware.

Dealer Profile

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An ornate, repousse-decorated 19th-century sterling silver tea caddy resting on a reflective black surface.

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Archive I

A Magnificent Antique Solid Silver Tea Caddy/sugar Box Large & Heavy - 19th C.

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An ornate, repousse-decorated 19th-century sterling silver tea caddy resting on a reflective black surface. View II

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An ornate, repousse-decorated 19th-century sterling silver tea caddy resting on a reflective black surface. View III

Archive IV

An ornate, repousse-decorated 19th-century sterling silver tea caddy resting on a reflective black surface. View IV

Archive V

An ornate, repousse-decorated 19th-century sterling silver tea caddy resting on a reflective black surface. View V

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An ornate, repousse-decorated 19th-century sterling silver tea caddy resting on a reflective black surface. View VI

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An ornate, repousse-decorated 19th-century sterling silver tea caddy resting on a reflective black surface. View VII

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An ornate, repousse-decorated 19th-century sterling silver tea caddy resting on a reflective black surface. View VIII

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An ornate, repousse-decorated 19th-century sterling silver tea caddy resting on a reflective black surface. View IX

Archive X

An ornate, repousse-decorated 19th-century sterling silver tea caddy resting on a reflective black surface. View X

Archive XI

An ornate, repousse-decorated 19th-century sterling silver tea caddy resting on a reflective black surface. View XI

Archive XII

An ornate, repousse-decorated 19th-century sterling silver tea caddy resting on a reflective black surface. View XII

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An ornate, repousse-decorated 19th-century sterling silver tea caddy resting on a reflective black surface. View XIII

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An ornate, repousse-decorated 19th-century sterling silver tea caddy resting on a reflective black surface. View XIV

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Archive XVI

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An ornate, repousse-decorated 19th-century sterling silver tea caddy resting on a reflective black surface. View XVII

Archive XVIII

An ornate, repousse-decorated 19th-century sterling silver tea caddy resting on a reflective black surface. View XVIII

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An ornate, repousse-decorated 19th-century sterling silver tea caddy resting on a reflective black surface. View XIX

Archive XX

An ornate, repousse-decorated 19th-century sterling silver tea caddy resting on a reflective black surface. View XX

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Archive XXII

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Archive XXIII

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Archive XXIV

An ornate, repousse-decorated 19th-century sterling silver tea caddy resting on a reflective black surface. View XXIV

Archive XXV

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Archive XXVI

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Archive XXVII

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Archive XXVIII

An ornate, repousse-decorated 19th-century sterling silver tea caddy resting on a reflective black surface. View XXVIII

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