Lot 132a: A 19th Century Mahogany Sarcophagus Tea Caddy and a Carved Hardwood Stand
A 19th-century mahogany tea caddy of sarcophagus form featuring a stepped lid and turned bun feet. The hinged lid opens to a red paper-lined interior comprising two removable lidded compartments for loose tea, flanking a central circular aperture intended for a glass blending bowl. The exterior is finished with figured mahogany veneers and a brass escutcheon. The lot is accompanied by a separate stand constructed from two interlocking pieces of dark wood, featuring pierced foliate motifs, incised decoration, and open scrollwork. A small yellow rectangular adhesive label is affixed to the left side of the lid, bearing the handwritten alphanumeric code 132A.
Condition report:
The caddy shows significant wear and loss of finish to the lid (photo 1). One turned bun foot is missing from the rear base corner (photo 1). The interior shows wood splitting to the base of the left tea compartment and wear to the red paper lining, including losses and old repairs at the hinges (photo 2). The carved stand shows general wear to the edges and joints consistent with use (photo 1). The central glass blending bowl is missing (photo 2).
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