Tea caddy

1780-1810

Measurements

4 in x 4 in x 3 in

Materials

Tortoise shell, silver

Credit Line

Historic Odessa Foundation, gift of H. Rodney Sharp

Accession Number

1959.3751

Inscription

"P" is engraved on an oval appliqué in the front.

Condition Notes

The lock escutcheon is missing, as is one small tortoise panel from the top of the right rear canted corner.  The right front canted corner panel has cracked.

Provenance

Ex coll. H. Rodney Sharp

Comments

This tea caddy--a rectangular box with canted corners and a hinged lid with bail handle, was made for stylish display while serving tea.  It is covered with thin tortoise shell panels, a material long admired and desired, set within silver borders.  The "P" engraved within brightwork decoration on a small oval plaque nailed to the front panel, was likely the last initial of the owner, whose identity is unknown.