A tin that tells four stories at once: all-around lithographed Chinoiserie scenes in red, gold, and cream, with a round Shou medallion on top – the Chinese character for long life. Such small tea caddies arrived in Europe as packaging with tea from the mid-20th century onwards and were kept here because they were too beautiful to throw away.
Material and Craftsmanship
Tinplate, multi-color lithographed all around, inside lacquered gold. The body edges are rounded, and the slip lid extends over the recessed rim. Two of the four panels show a lady in a crimson robe with a round fan on the lakeside, behind her a junk under sail; the other two show a bearded angler with a straw hat and a boy with a fishing net in front of a pagoda. Butterflies and peach blossoms are scattered over all surfaces, and the frames are in gold with corner volutes and a meander border.
Dimensions and Era
- Base: 7 cm × 7 cm
- Height with lid: 9.5 cm
- Dating: Vintage, estimated 1950s–1970s
- Bottom mark: none present
Condition
There are several rust spots on the bottom edge and small chips in the print layer on the base rim – both shown in the photos. The lithography on the sides and lid is complete and vibrant in color, the interior is clean and odor-free. No dents, no deformations. The lid fits snugly and closes perfectly.
Usage
Suitable for loose tea, coffee beans, or spices, as well as for storing jewelry, stamps, buttons, or sewing notions. It adds a small, warm splash of color on a tea tray, a kitchen shelf, or next to books. The price is for 1 piece.
Origin and Shipping
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