Chinese tea box

Description:

This is a Chinese lacquered tea caddy box, octagonal in shape, adorned with intricate hand-painted floral and gilded decorations. It includes two internal tea canisters made of tin or pewter with fitted lids. Inside the lid, there is a seal reading "Griffiths & Co," suggesting it may have been distributed by a historical British or Chinese export company. The exterior design, lacquerwork, and craftsmanship suggest it dates to the late 19th or early 20th century, a period when such tea caddies were popular for storing loose tea leaves.

Historical Context:

Tea caddies like this were essential during the 18th and 19th centuries for preserving the freshness of tea, a highly valued commodity. The decoration on this box reflects the influence of Chinese artistry, which catered to European tastes during the height of the tea trade. Griffiths & Co, as indicated by the seal, was likely a distributor of fine goods, and their name may link this piece to the export trade era.

Condition:

The overall condition is good, with some signs of age and wear:

• The lacquer shows minor cracks and surface wear, typical for its age.
• The tin canisters are intact, though they display some oxidation and rust.
• The interior wood shows splitting, which might slightly impact the value.

Current Market Value:

The value of such a piece depends on its provenance, condition, and market demand:

• Auction Estimate: $150 to $300.
• Retail Price: $300 to $450 if sold through a reputable antique dealer.
• Private Sale: Likely to sell for $150 to $250, depending on buyer interest.

Recommendations for Sale:

To maximize the value:

1. Lightly clean the surface with a soft, damp cloth to enhance its appearance without damaging the lacquer.
2. Include details about the "Griffiths & Co" seal, as this adds historical value.
3. Consider listing it in antique marketplaces or through auction houses specializing in Asian or tea-related antiques.

This tea box appeals to collectors of Chinese export art, tea enthusiasts, or those interested in historical trade artifacts.

That's a nice late Victoria tea caddy, many of them had locks on them as tea was considered a expensive commodity, being exported from India and China.  I have a little more information for you about the company. James Griffiths migrated to Australia in 1873 and founded the successful tea business of the same name. The Griffiths Bros Limited (1898-1960s) was located in Melbourne, Victoria, Australia. Registered in Victoria in 1898 as Griffiths Brothers Pty Ltd. The company was re-registered in 1913, and in 1920 was converted to a public company. In the 1960s the business was taken over by the Robur Tea Company Limited. In terms of value, a nice tea caddy like this currently goes at auction in the $300.00- $500.00 range.