RECENT ACQUISITIONS - 19th May
An Important 17th Century Indian (Goa) Solid Silver-Gilt Filigree Tea Caddy Chest. Of exceptional craftsmanship, this rare rectangular tea caddy chest is fashioned from solid silver, richly gilt, and decorated in exquisite filigree. Each panel is densely adorned with finely worked, scrolling foliate motifs composed of flattened and twisted wire, demonstrating the meticulous technique and stylistic precision typical of Goan silversmiths in the late seventeenth century. Two elegantly cast side handles complement the intricate surface, while the chest is secured at the front with a hinged clasp and key.
Upon lifting the lid, also filigreed and edged with floral detailing, the interior reveals three individual lidded tea caddies. Ingeniously fitted, the left and right decanters lift out independently, while the central compartment is designed to slide laterally before being removed. While the sides of the caddies are plain, they are entirely gilt, echoing the box’s opulent finish and providing a striking visual contrast to the filigree exterior.
Reference Number: J11070