Mid-Century Fruitwood Pear Tea Caddy, 1930s

Details

Description

Unique and highly collectible piece—rare in Italy, where it was originally discovered. This sculptural tea caddy is crafted from fruitwood … Read more Unique and highly collectible piece—rare in Italy, where it was originally discovered. This sculptural tea caddy is crafted from fruitwood and both turned and carved into the shape of a pear. Dating to the early 20th century, likely around the 1930s, it recalls the traditional woodcraft found in certain areas of northern Italy.

It has undergone careful conservation by our trusted restorer, who thoroughly cleaned it and applied a light protective wax to enhance the grain and its beautiful patina. Unfortunately, the original lock was broken beyond repair, but we were able to preserve and adapt the original key to fit the newly installed, fully functioning lock. Highly decorative, this tea caddy can also be used simply as a box—though calling it “simple” would be quite an understatement. It’s a whimsical, magical object, with its meticulously carved pear form and the delightful fragrance of fruitwood released when opened. We especially love the way the upper and lower cavities were carved, with intentional chisel marks left visible—allowing a fruit shape, which naturally wouldn’t stand upright, to rest securely. And the stem? Strikingly realistic, with natural curves and irregularities on the top and a solid, substantial base.

The exterior dimensions are 24 cm in diameter by 31 cm in height, while the interior measures 11 cm in diameter by 14 cm in height. See less