Images(11)

Tea Caddy

Date1765-1766

Marked by John Parker I & Edward Wakelin (active 1760-1776)

OriginEngland, London

MediumSilver (Sterling)

DimensionsBody without finial: 4" x 4" x 4'; OH with finial: 4 1/2" Weight: 13 oz. dwt

Credit LineGift of John A. Hyman: The John A. Hyman Study Collection.

Object number2004-65

DescriptionTea caddy of cube shape, the four sides identically framed with an engraved leafy running border around a simulated wooden tea crate, engraved on two sides with a Chinese ideogram of Patience, on the other two, the ideogram for Righteousness, the flat locking hinged lid similarly bordered and with a small cast finial in the form of a tea plant.
Label TextThis fashionable silver box was used to store loose tea. It would have been brought to the table with the teapot and other tea-drinking accoutrements. Four inches square, it is meant to resemble the large wooden chests used for shipping tea from China. Dated 1765-66, the box was retailed by the London firm of John Parker I & Edward Wakelin. In partnership from 1760 to 1776, Parker and Wakelin used at least seventy-five different craftsmen to fill more than 7,000 orders. Silversmith James Ansill and Stephen Gilbert probably made the body of this box. Aaron and William Lestourgeon undoubtedly made its lock, and engraver Robert Clee likely executed its decoration.
InscribedEngraved on base with scratch weight "14:0"
MarkingsMarked in relief on base:1) Sponsor’s mark of John Parker I & Edward Wakelin, I•P over E•W under fleur de lis [Grimwade 1990 # 1602]; 2) lion passant; 3) leopard's head crowned; 4) date letter "K" in Gothic lettering for 1765-66

Also marked in relief inside cover: 1) Sponsor’s mark of John Parker I & Edward Wakelin, I•P over E•W under fleur de lis [Grimwade 1990 # 1602]; 2) lion passant

ProvenanceAcquired by donor John A. Hyman, part of the Hyman Collection, from S.J. Shrubsole, 102 East 57th Street, New York on August 15, 2004.