This rare George III silver tea caddy or “tea tub” evokes the exotic origins of tea. Rich engraving, simulating planks and pseudo-Chinese characters reflect 18th-century Europe's enthusiasm for treasures from the Far East. Crafted by English silversmiths John Parker and Edward Wakelin, the shape is reminiscent of the wooden packing crates used to ship tea from China. Silver "tea tub" caddies such as this one are quite rare, as most chest-form caddies were usually made of wood.

Hallmarked London, 1766

33/4” square

Perhaps most among all beverages, tea is known for its enigmatic beginning, rivaled only by coffee. The colorful story of its accidental discovery by a Chinese emperor has been matched by its