What was an antique caddy used for?

These vessels served to store and lock away expensive tea leaves when tea was a heavily taxed luxury. They kept the aroma potent and protected the dry leaves from damp air. Wealthy households kept them in the parlour or dining room, often retaining the key to restrict access by domestic staff.

How do I date a wooden tea caddy?

Dating relies on timber choice, construction methods, and hardware styles such as hinges and escutcheons. Georgian boxes often display plain mahogany or subtle string inlay. Later Victorian examples utilise exotic veneers like amboyna and incorporate heavier decorative mounts and plush silk or velvet interior linings.

Are caddy spoons made of silver?

Many examples are fashioned from sterling silver, though silver-plated versions also exist. Silver resisted corrosion from the damp oils of tea leaves. Silversmiths experimented with shell forms, floral motifs, and novelty shapes during the Georgian and Victorian periods.

How do I care for an antique wood caddy?

Keep wooden boxes away from direct sunlight and steady heat sources to prevent the timber and delicate veneers from warping or cracking. Maintain a stable room humidity. Dust gently with a dry, soft cloth and avoid modern liquid polishes that can damage old wax finishes or infiltrate tiny gaps in the grain.