Tea Caddy
Maker
Unknown
Daten. d.
Mediummahogany, ivory and brass
Dimensions7 × 11 1/2 × 5 1/2 inches (17.8 × 29.2 × 14 cm)
Object numberOT1954.64.a-c
On View
On viewTerms
CopyrightThe images and text contained on this page are owned by Telfair Museums or used by the Museum with permission from the owners. Unauthorized reproduction, transmission or display of these materials is prohibited with the exception of items deemed “fair use” as defined by U.S. and international copyright laws.Label TextThis mahogany tea caddy has three interior compartments, two with hinged doors featuring ivory knobs, and a third that held a small bowl. The exterior has brass inlay along each edge, and an ivory key escutcheon. Brass lion's head loop handles are on each side, and it sits on four brass ball feet. There is a lock on this container, as tea was a luxury household expense.
The term 'caddy' is derived from the Chinese word 'catty', a Chinese unit of weight by which tea used to be sold. The English then started using the word caddy to mean a container for tea.