Large Indian Elk Horn Tea Caddy, Vizagatapatam, circa 1850

Beautifully carved Qing dynasty tea caddy from Elmwood (yumu), with floral motifs and finished with an oxblood color lacquer. The handle has a finely carved bat motif, which symbolizes good fortune. The large size is very usual and was used in a large family compound. The tea caddy is designed to hold and keep warm, large tea pot filled with tea. The tea pot’s spout comes out the front opening for pouring. The horizontal bar used as the container’s handle has a pivoting lock when open, the handle bar can be removed and closing of the pivoting lock, the handle is secure for use. The wooden tea caddy...

Beautifully carved Qing dynasty tea caddy from Elmwood (yumu), with floral motifs and finished with an oxblood color lacquer. The large size is very usual and was used in a large family compound. The tea caddy is designed to hold and keep warm, large tea pot filled with tea. The tea pot’s spout comes out the front opening for pouring. The horizontal bar used as the container’s handle has a pivoting lock when open, the handle bar can be removed and closing of the pivoting lock, the handle is secure for use. The wooden tea caddy...

This 19th-century serving tray exemplifies Qing-dynasty refinement with simplicity of form and an emphasis on natural materials. Crafted of a darkly colored hardwood, the elegant tra...

Made of Chinese northern elmwood, this smooth block of wood was once used as a rigid headrest or neck pillow. The soft curve and height of the block not only supported the head while...