A tea caddy is a lidded box designed to store loose tea leaves securely. Because tea was an expensive commodity in the Georgian period, these containers frequently included locks and internal lidded compartments. They appear in various timbers such as mahogany, yew and satinwood, occasionally featuring octagonal or serpentine outlines.

How do I clean mahogany boxes?

Maintenance requires gentle dusting with a soft, dry cloth to protect the polished timber surface. Avoid harsh chemical polishes and keep wooden boxes away from direct sunlight and heat sources. Natural beeswax applied sparingly helps preserve the patina of eighteenth-century furniture and smaller wooden containers.

What is a cellarette used for?

A cellarette functions as a secure container for storing wine bottles and decanters within a dining room. They often feature lead linings or internal wooden dividers to keep bottles upright and cool. Larger examples stand on independent legs or original pedestals, while others sit directly on the floor beneath sideboards.

How do I identify silver hallmarks?

Silver hallmarks include a combination of stamps indicating the maker's initials, the town of assay, the standard of metal and a date letter. These marks help determine the exact year and location of manufacture. Examining the interior lid or base reveals these tiny stamped symbols, which connect the piece to recorded silversmiths.