What were tea caddies used for?

Tea caddies served to store precious tea leaves safely under lock and key in the Georgian and Victorian drawing room. Tea was a costly import, so the container protected the contents from damp and pilfering. Inside, these boxes often contained two lead-lined or wooden compartments for different varieties of tea, alongside a central mixing bowl. The key remained with the mistress of the house.

How do I identify a Regency box?

Regency boxes typically display clean classical proportions, sharp brass inlay, and geometric parquetry patterns influenced by contemporary neoclassical design. Woods like rosewood and mahogany predominate in this era. Look for Brighton chain pier motifs, fine stringing, and Campaign-style brass bracket feet or drop handles. The interiors often retain original French-polished surfaces and maker paper labels.

Burr walnut is taken from a tree growth or knot where the grain has grown in a deformed, swirling pattern. This produces complex, highly decorative figure lines prized by cabinet makers. Because of its irregular growth, it is difficult to work with and was typically sliced into thin veneers. It appears frequently on the lids of nineteenth-century caskets to create striking visual impact.

How should I care for timber boxes?

Keep wooden boxes away from direct sunlight and sudden temperature shifts to prevent the dry veneers from lifting or cracking. Maintain a stable indoor environment. Apply a minimal amount of microcrystalline wax occasionally to nourish the historic polish and protect the timber surface. Avoid using modern silicone polishes which can damage the aged finish.

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A decorative timber box brings tactile warmth and history to a room, offering a functional vessel crafted from fine woods for keepsakes, tea, or letters.

19th century

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19th Century Marquetry Fruitwood Desktop Box

From Debenham Antiques Ltd

£695

3+ MONTHS AGO

boxes

19th century

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A Carved Wood Casket, Qajar Iran, 19th Century

From H & H Gallery

£5,500

3+ MONTHS AGO

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Decorative Timber Box

19th Century Marquetry Fruitwood Desktop Box

A Carved Wood Casket, Qajar Iran, 19th Century

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