Rare English Georgian Dome Top Mahogany Tea Caddy With Fan & Britannia Inlay c.1800

Made from Mahogany and edged in Boxwood, the caddy has a wonderfully elegant dome top with the original silver on copper finial handle. The top of the lid has a large fan inlay.

Obviously the inlay on the front is what makes this a star piece with a beautiful inlaid Britannia scene holding the shield with the British Lion at her feet. Her love of peace was indicated in the sprig of olive clasped in her left hand. This perhaps harked back to her ancient past, for it was Athena who, according to her myth, gave the first olive tree to her city of Athens. In modern times, Britannia remains the universally recognised personification of Britain.

A wonderful and unique piece for the discerning collector. Excellent condition with a decorative tasselled key (for display only, not working). A fine shrinkage crack to base seen inside of the left-hand compartment base, insignificant but mentioned for accuracy. 7 1/4" x 4 1/4" x 5 1/4" tall excluding handle.

Item ID: 33813