This exceptional and large Dutch silver tea caddy has a chamfered rectangular shaped form onto four cushion feet.
The surface of this silver caddy is embellished with embossed and chased decoration depicting figures drinking, conversing and supporting each other in a tavern setting; this ornamentation was influenced by Flemish/Dutch genre artwork, such as pieces crafted in the late 17th century by David Teniers II.
The swept upper portion of the caddy is embellished with floral sprays, accented with curvilinear fluted designs to each corner.
The box is fitted with an elevated rectangular sleeve fitted with the original hallmarked push fit cover, accented with cast and applied illustrations depicting gentleman in armour and a portrait of a dignitary.
The upper plateau of the cover is surmounted with a cast knopped finial.
The underside and cover of this large silver tea caddy include:
Maker's mark: R 133 (untraced)
Silver quality/purity mark: Lion Passant mark with 2nd standard purity (.833, 833/1000)
Duty mark: Minerva head, M (Schoonhoven)
Export mark: Key mark intruding lion passant
This exceptional example of Dutch silverware is large for its type.
Learn more about silver tea caddy history
Maker: Untraced Maker's Mark
