Antique 19th Century Chinese Export Tea Caddy

An elegant antique 19th-century Chinese tea caddy box featuring gilt scenes of figures, pagodas, and palm trees set against black lacquer. The softly worn finish gives the piece a beautiful sense of history, while the octagonal form and hand-decorated details make it a striking decorative object.

Boxes are one of my favorite things to decorate with. They bring warmth and character to a coffee table, bookshelf, or desk while providing the perfect place to tuck away love letters, stationery, or jewelry.

This piece is a beautiful example of the historical trade lacquerware crafted for the Western market during the Qing Dynasty.

Details:

• Circa 1840–1880
• This antique piece is in good, stable condition with age-appropriate wear that highlights its rich history. There is light surface scratching, some lacquer loss, and flaking/fading to the gilt borders, primarily along the high-contact edges and lid. Please review all photos carefully as they form part of the cosmetic description.
• Measures approx 4" t x 8" w
• Please note: all sales final