What were tea caddies used for?

Tea caddies served as secure storage containers for expensive tea leaves during eras when tea was a luxury commodity. The boxes typically included separate internal compartments to keep different leaf varieties distinct. Wealthy households kept these caddies locked to control domestic supplies. Many incorporated small glass mixing bowls for blending different leaves before brewing.

How do I care for a marquetry box?

Protect the veneered surfaces by keeping wooden boxes away from direct sunlight and steady heat sources that can dry out old timbers. Dust gently with a dry cloth and avoid harsh chemical polishes. Maintain a stable room humidity to prevent the thin wood veneers from lifting or cracking. Wax can be applied sparingly if the finish requires nourishment.

How can I tell Tunbridge Ware apart?

Tunbridge Ware relies on mosaic tile construction where tiny cross-sections of coloured wood are bundled together to create a picture. Look for geometric borders made from thousands of microscopic wood squares. These pieces often depict local castles, butterflies, or floral sprays on the lid. The base frequently carries the signature stamp of makers like Edmund Nye or Henry Hollamby.

What is a writing box?

A writing box is a portable desk featuring a hinged slope that folds down to create a firm writing surface. Interiors contain slots for pens, inkwells, and compartments for folded letters. Travellers and military officers utilised these desks to maintain correspondence on the move. Secret drawers were frequently built into the lower sections to hide valuables.