Antique English Regency Coromandel Tea Caddy Start Price USD 1,950.00 Current Price USD 1,950.00 Time Left - Bid Count 0 Buy It Now Price - Reserve Price - Start Time Thursday, November 20, 2008 End Time Saturday, December 20, 2008 Location Laguna Beach, California See more about 'Antique English Regency Coromandel Tea Caddy' Description Click HERE for our other AUCTIONSAntique English Regency Coromandel Tea Caddy Click on the thumbnails to view enlargements This fine example of Regency artisanship features a large over sized sarcophagus style profile, lion head handles and structure with pyramid shaped lid, all made of the rare rich and prized dense coromandel wood, sometimes known as Madagasgar ebony, the custom round mixing bowl frame, and the twin coromandel tea box lids inside. The original cut crystal mixing bowl in the center is rare indeed. The inside of the lid boasts original golden velvet signifying noble stature. The "tea chest" or "caddy", which became popular later, derives from the Malay Chinese "kati" which means a measure of tea weighing about a pound and one third. This single imported commodity was destined to inspire almost two centuries of social ritual and decorative arts. The largest and most diverse group of caddies are the wooden boxes or chests. The high cost of tea assured its status as a luxury item and necessitated a secure container for its storage and display. The construction and decoration of these containers was a reflection of the social rank of the owner. The finest furniture makers were enlisted to produce these boxes, each of which reflected the cabinetmaker's best work. Circa 1805-1815. h. 9" w. 14" d. 7.5". Custom listed using TROCADERO's automated HTML and Picture Hosting tools. Place a Bid!