Exceptional Late 19th Century Chinese Yew Wood and Brass Tea Chest - Circa 1880

Details

Description

Exceptional Late 19th Century Chinese Yew Wood and Brass Tea Caddy - Circa 1880
A remarkable discovery from an Old … Read more Exceptional Late 19th Century Chinese Yew Wood and Brass Tea Caddy - Circa 1880
A remarkable discovery from an Old Cape Cod summer house collection
This extraordinary Chinese tea caddy represents the pinnacle of late 19th-century decorative arts, combining the finest materials with exquisite hand-painted artistry. Dating to circa 1880, this museum-quality piece was discovered among the treasures of a distinguished Cape Cod summer house collection - a testament to the discerning eye of collectors who recognized exceptional craftsmanship when they saw it.
Key Features:

Origin: China, circa 1880
Dimensions: 10.5" x 8.5" x 7.5"
Materials: Yew wood with brass fittings
Decoration: Hand-painted with beautiful aging
Provenance: Old Cape Cod summer house collection
Style: Traditional Chinese decorative arts

Description:
This magnificent tea caddy showcases the sophisticated craftsmanship that made Chinese decorative objects highly prized by Western collectors during the late Victorian era. The choice of yew wood - prized for its fine grain and durability - provides the perfect canvas for the delicate hand-painted decoration that adorns the surface.
The brass fittings complement the warm tones of the aged yew wood, creating a harmonious blend of materials that speaks to the maker's understanding of both function and beauty. The hand-painted elements show the refined artistry typical of the best Chinese export pieces of this period.
Craftsmanship Details:

Premium yew wood construction with beautiful natural grain
Hand-applied painted decoration in traditional Chinese style
Quality brass hardware and fittings
Interior compartments designed for tea storage
Sophisticated joinery techniques

Condition:
In good condition appropriate for a 140+ year-old piece. Shows beautiful authentic patina and aging that enhances rather than detracts from its character. One handle is missing - a common occurrence with antique tea caddies that actually adds to the piece's authentic historical narrative.
The overall style, impressive size, and gorgeous patina make this a standout example of Chinese decorative arts from the period.
Historical Significance:
This tea caddy represents the height of Chinese export craftsmanship during the late 19th century, when skilled artisans created objects specifically for Western markets while maintaining traditional Chinese decorative techniques. The quality and scale suggest this was made for discerning collectors who appreciated fine materials and expert workmanship.
Tea caddies of this caliber were essential accessories in well-appointed Victorian households, where the ritual of tea service was both social necessity and artistic expression.
Investment Quality:
Pieces of this caliber from established collections represent exceptional value - the combination of age, materials, craftsmanship, and provenance creates the perfect storm for collectors of Chinese decorative arts.
Perfect for collectors of:

Chinese export porcelain and decorative arts
Late 19th-century Asian antiques
Tea ceremony and service accessories
Yew wood and exotic timber pieces
Victorian-era decorative objects
Museum-quality Oriental art

A rare opportunity to acquire a piece that represents both exceptional craftsmanship and the discerning taste of generations of collectors - from 1880s China to Old Cape Cod summer houses. See less