What were tea caddies used for?

Tea caddies served to store expensive tea leaves securely under lock and key during eras when tea was a costly luxury commodity. Inside, compartments separated different varieties of tea, often featuring lead linings or glass bowls for mixing.

How do I care for antique wood boxes?

Keep these wooden boxes away from direct sunlight and rapid temperature fluctuations to prevent the timber from warping or splitting. Apply occasional applications of traditional beeswax to nourish the grain and maintain the protective surface sheen.

What is a mule chest?

A mule chest combines the deep storage capacity of a traditional coffer with one or more lower drawers built into the base. This hybrid form emerged as makers sought easier access to stored linens without needing to remove items piled on top.

How can I tell the period of a box?

Examine the construction methods, tool marks, and wood species, as 18th-century pieces frequently utilise solid oak or walnut with hand-cut joinery. Later Regency and 19th-century examples often introduce mahogany veneers, brass inlay, and machine-sawn components.