What were tea caddies used for?

Tea caddies stored expensive loose tea leaves safely under lock and key in the Georgian home. Servants kept the key to control access to the valuable leaves. Inside, the boxes often featured separate compartments for different teas and a central mixing bowl for blending.

How do I date an inlaid satinwood tea caddy?

Dating relies on the overall shape, the style of inlay, and the construction methods used inside the box. Late eighteenth-century pieces often take oval or octagonal forms with delicate shell motifs. Regency examples tend toward heavier sarcophagus silhouettes incorporating rosewood banding and bold brass paw feet.

How should I clean my tea caddy?

Maintenance requires only a soft, dry cloth to remove dust from the delicate satinwood veneer. Avoid liquid polishes and modern sprays that can penetrate old timber pores. Keep the box away from direct sunlight and radiators to prevent the dry satinwood and delicate stringing from warping.

Why do some caddies have multiple compartments?

Multiple compartments allowed owners to keep black and green teas separate within the same box. A central recess often held a glass or ceramic bowl used for blending the leaves. Lidded inner canisters ensured the aromatic leaves retained their strong flavours between uses.