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Unusual Swansea Prattware Pearlware Pottery Covered Botanical Tea Caddy Box
$2,500
£1,896.09
€2,177.74
CA$3,581.60
A$3,943.07
CHF 2,015.31
MX$47,061.64
NOK 25,659.24
SEK 24,011.33
DKK 16,266.42
About the Item
Charming Utility: A Swansea Pearlware Prattware Covered Tea Caddy Box, c. 1800-1820
This is an exceptional example of an early 19th-century Pearlware Tea Caddy Box, distinguished by its delightful Prattware enamel decoration. Attributed to the prominent Cambrian Pottery in Swansea, Wales, this box perfectly illustrates the transition in English pottery from traditional Delftware to the refined creamware and pearlware popular during the Georgian era.
The rectangular, footed form is practical and elegant. The subtle bluish tint of the Pearlware glaze provides a beautiful, luminous ground for the lively, hand-painted decoration. The box is adorned with continuous Pratt colors—vibrant shades of ochre, orange, cobalt blue, and leaf green—depicting delicate floral sprays on its sides and a charming basket of flowers on its principal face.
Designed for function, the interior features a fixed central divider creating two distinct compartments. This allowed the owner to store two different, expensive tea varieties, such as green and black tea, while the fitted lid ensured both were kept fresh. The box stands on four small, waisted feet and is finished with a loop handle on the cover.
Dimensions: 5 1/2 inches high x 5 inches wide x 3 1/2 inches deep (13.97cm high x 12.7cm wide x 8.89cm deep).
Marks: Faint scratch marks, possibly factory or batch numbers, "59" on the cover and "62" on the base.
Condition: Very good antique condition; a tiny frit (glaze chip) is noted below the rim line on one side.
Historical Context and References
1. The Prattware Palette and Style
The term "Prattware" refers to ceramics decorated with a distinctive, often high-relief molded form painted with a limited palette of high-fired, opaque colors, predominantly blue, ochre (orange/yellow), green, and brown. While the technique originated with the Pratt family potters, the style was widely adopted by numerous factories across England and Wales.
This caddy is an excellent example of the later, less molded, hand-painted floral style of Prattware on a flat Pearlware surface.
2. Attribution to Swansea's Cambrian Pottery
The Cambrian Pottery in Swansea, Wales, was one of the most prolific producers of domestic pearlware and creamware decorated in the Pratt style during this period, particularly under the ownership of Lewis Weston Dillwyn. The specific painting style and color usage align strongly with known Swansea production.
3. The Function of the Double Tea Caddy
In the early 19th century, tea was still a luxury item, often kept locked away in a tea caddy (or tea chest) to prevent servants from pilfering the costly leaves. A double caddy was an aristocratic or well-to-do domestic necessity, allowing the fashionable choice between different tea varieties for guests or private consumption.
References for Comparison
For detailed context on this style and attribution, consult:
Grigsby, Leslie (1987). English Pottery 1650-1800: The Henry H. Weldon Collection. Sotheby’s Publications. (For general context on Pearlware and the Pratt palette.)
Grant, Captain M.H. (1969). The Makers of Black Basaltes, Prattware, and Fenton. The Ceramic Book Company. (Classic reference on Prattware decoration.)
The Victoria and Albert Museum (V&A) and other major collections of British ceramics frequently feature similar Swansea and Prattware examples for stylistic comparison.
(Ref: NY10125-nrrr)
- Dimensions:Height: 5.5 in (13.97 cm)Width: 5 in (12.7 cm)Depth: 3.5 in (8.89 cm)
- Style:Georgian (Of the Period)
- Materials and Techniques:
- Place of Origin:
- Period:
- Date of Manufacture:1800-1820
- Condition:Wear consistent with age and use.
- Seller Location:Downingtown, PA
- Reference Number:Seller: NY10125-nrrr1stDibs: LU861031097392
About the Seller
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Reference:
Haggarty, G 2010 ‘The Belfield Pottery Production Site Ceramic Resource Disk: The Northern Ceramic Society Journal Vol 26 (2009-10), 142-3 + CD ROM.
Pratt Ware: English and Scottish relief decorated and underglaze coloured earthenware, 1780-1840, John and Griselda Lewis, Page 234.
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