What were tea caddies used for?

Tea caddies served to store expensive tea leaves securely under lock and key in wealthy households. The leaves were measured out sparingly by the head of the house. These small boxes often feature internal compartments or multiple canisters to separate different varieties of tea.

How do I identify a coal box?

Coal boxes and scuttles are typically constructed from robust metal such as brass, copper, or cast iron to withstand heavy fuel. Many incorporate hinged lids, drop handles, and specialised shovels. Victorian examples frequently display embossed decorative motifs or sit within dedicated wooden frames.

What is an industrial mill bin?

An industrial mill bin is a heavy-duty container salvaged from nineteenth or early twentieth-century manufacturing sites. These pieces were built for rigorous daily work in factories and mills. Constructed from durable metals, they often retain original wheels, stencilled lettering, or iron framing.

How are wooden storage boxes dated?

Dating relies on observing construction techniques such as dovetailing, tool marks, and the specific wood species utilised. Georgian pieces frequently employ mahogany or oak with hand-cut joints, while Edwardian items show different manufacturing standards. Hardware components like locks, hinges, and key escutcheons also provide reliable chronological markers.