Of large size, the well patinated fruitwood caddy of apple form, having a hinged lid and stem, the side with a steel keyhole escutcheon, the interior with traces of earlier foil lining; excellent color and patination

Introduced in the late 18th century, fruit-forms are today probably the most sought-after of all caddies.  There is conjecture that these caddies were made in imitation of the early 18th century Chinese pears and aubergines.  English (and German) examples were predominately apples and pears; however cantaloupes, aubergines, and even strawberries and pineapples have been found.  Unlike the Chinese caddies, which had contrasting woods and screw-on lids, the European models were simply polished or varnished, having loosely fitted hinged lids that were lifted by means of a stalk - many of with have been broken or lost.  The interiors were lined with foil, softly disintegrated through years of use. Such is their popularity that many imitations are still made today.

 However this one is from the late 18th or early 19th century English Georgian period.

Condition : Very good; a restored shrinkage line to the right side of the box, the stem a possible replacement

4.5” High

SOLD

# 6447

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George III Fruitwood Pear-Form
Tea Caddy, c1790-1810,

with original key

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George III Fruitwood Apple-Form Tea Caddy, of large size, England, c1790-1810