Tea Caddy

Date1790-1791

Maker Peter Bateman

Maker Jonathan Bateman (fl. 1790 - 1791)

OriginEngland, London

MediumSilver (sterling)

DimensionsTea Caddy: OH: 5 1/2 in.; OW: 5 1/4 in.; OD: 3 1/4 in. Spoon: OW: 1 3/4 in.; OL: 3 in.

Credit LineGift of Beatrix T. Rumford

Object number2020-102,1

DescriptionSilver Tea Caddy: Oval boat-shaped tea caddy with flat base and straight sides seamed under center of hinge. Five-knuckle hinge attaches to domed lid with upswept ends, lock, and flattened urn-shaped finial with threaded post held in place with square nut. upper and lower ridges of body and edge of lid bright-cut engraved with bands of stylized flowers and geometric patterns bordered by wriggle work.
InscribedBright-cut oval cartouche under lock with sprigged script engraved initials "EG"; bright-cut oval cartouche of different pattern on opposite side under hinge with sprigged script engraved initials "ECM". Engraved on base in later semi-script "1795".
MarkingsMarked on base in relief: 1) "PB/IB" for Peter and Jonathan Bateman [Grimwade 1990, #2142]; 2) lion passant; 3) date letter "p" for 1790-91; 4) leopard's head crowned; and 5) sovereign's head duty mark. Also marked in relief with #1 and #2 on inside of lid.