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Antique English Faux Tortoise Shell Regency Style Tea Caddy Box

$1,250List Price

About the Item

The object depicted is a fine English faux tortoiseshell tea caddy, dating to the first quarter of the 19th century, likely c. 1810–1825, during the late Regency to early William IV period. The caddy is constructed of richly mottled turtle shell veneer, possibly from hawksbill, with a deeply contoured bombe form and domed lid, a design favored in high-style domestic accessories of the period. The undulating top and softly bowed front and sides evoke a fluid, organic elegance characteristic of the English Regency aesthetic. The hinged lid lifts to reveal a richly patinated interior retaining a tortoiseshell inner lid with turned knob, and the overall structure rests on four compressed bun feet. A small escutcheon, likely fashioned from bone or ivory, remains inset at front, echoing the restrained neoclassical accents typical of fine English cabinetry of the era. The wavy lid and incurved plinth base contribute to the sculptural refinement of the form, which was designed to both safeguard and stylishly present expensive loose leaf teas—then an important luxury commodity. This caddy is representative of the period’s obsession with rare and exotic materials, notably tortoiseshell, which was prized for its visual depth and warmth. While elegant in appearance, tortoiseshell was notoriously difficult to work with, requiring heat and pressure to mold and flatten into thin sheets. Its use here points to a high level of craftsmanship and access to imported materials, likely through London or Birmingham workshops specializing in luxurious personal objects such as snuff boxes, etuis, and tea caddies. Measures: 5.625" w x 3.75" d x 3.875" h.

Dimensions:
Height: 3.875 in (9.85 cm)Width: 5.625 in (14.29 cm)Depth: 3.75 in (9.53 cm)
Style:
Regency (Of the Period)
Materials and Techniques:
Shell
Place of Origin:
United Kingdom
Period:
19th Century
Date of Manufacture:
19th century
Condition:
Wear consistent with age and use. Minor wear commensurate with age and use.
Seller Location:
Atlanta, GA
Reference Number:
1stDibs: LU7838246016482

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