RARE Antique Anglo Indian Vizagapatam Ivory Tea Caddy Box Ink Work

Antiques : Boxes, Caddies, Cases

 

Here we have a rare Anglo Indian Ivory Tea Caddy. The large and unique shape makes this a true keeper. The intentionally tight-fitted, almost airtight lid was meant to preserve the aromas of the expensive teas and spices brought back from far-off places. This quality piece was made in India ca. 1780-1820 to be sold in the British market.. The ivory is covered in hand drawn ink - scenes of lions, tigers, ducks, snakes, leopards, elephants, and caribou all amongst a bed of foliage and rows of trees. The rest of the box, including the top and even under the box, is covered in patterns of leaves and flowers. Even the nails that hold the box are covered in ivory and ink drawings (to hide the nails)! The four feet of the box are in the form of elephants resting with their legs outstretched, in the manner of the ancient sphinx/pharaoh statues.

Condition: Excellent. Normal hairline cracks (very few and none can be felt, only seen). A paw of one elephant (foot of the box) has a chip. There may have been another handle to the bottom portion of the box (like the one on the lid). This really is not needed, since the box opens fine. Some of the ivory "covers" for the nails (less than paperclip size) have fallen off.

Measurements: 4 1/2 in. wide x 3 1/4 in. tall x 4 in. deep.

Item ID: B-6