What were victorian caddy boxes used for?

These boxes primarily stored precious loose leaf tea, which remained an expensive commodity locked away to prevent domestic theft. Over time, similar lidded forms adapted to hold biscuits, tobacco, playing cards, or writing materials in middle and upper class households.

How do I distinguish walnut from mahogany?

Walnut displays a rich chocolate brown hue with characteristic darker grain swirls and sometimes burr patterning. Mahogany tends toward a red-brown tone with straight grain figures or dramatic flame patterns. Both timbers were polished to a high gloss finish by period cabinet makers.

Are original keys normally included?

Many surviving boxes retain their small working keys, though countless others lost them over generations of use. Replacement locks or keys can be sourced, but an original operating lock adds historical completeness. Functional locks demonstrate that the contents were intended to remain secure.

How should I care for a wood caddy?

Keep wooden boxes away from direct sunlight and sudden temperature shifts to prevent the delicate veneers and inlays from lifting. Apply a microcrystalline wax occasionally to nourish the historic polish without building up residue. Avoid excessive moisture on papier-mâché and mother-of-pearl surfaces.