Walnut Tea Chest George III Sarcophagus Form

Description This George III Walnut Tea Chest is formed in the classic sarcophagus shape and dates to circa 1770 during the George III period. The tea chest is edged in covetto moulding with a raised inverted covetto lid and is extensively veneered in end grain walnut. Each exterior panel is framed with fine checkerboard inlay enclosing a central walnut panel, creating strong contrast across the front, sides and lid. The quality of the walnut veneer and the precision of the inlay are typical of late eighteenth century workmanship. The exterior is fitted with brass mounts including a substantial brass handle to the lid, circular brass pads designed to protect the surface from the handle striking the wood, and a shaped brass escutcheon to the front. The chest stands upon four turned brass ball feet, raising it from the surface and completing the classical silhouette. The interior of the George III tea chest is fitted with three compartments and retains traces of a decorative red finish. This three division arrangement reflects the traditional storage of different teas during the eighteenth century. A well proportioned Georgian walnut tea chest in sarcophagus form, combining end grain walnut veneer, checkerboard inlay and original brass mounts, dating to the George III period circa 1770. View the full Tea Caddy Collection. Mark Goodger Antiques has handled Georgian, Regency and Victorian tea caddies for decades, covering examples in tortoiseshell, pressed horn, burr woods, fruitwood, japanned surfaces, Tunbridge ware and silver. Our stock regularly includes sarcophagus forms, bombe shapes, novelty fruit caddies and rare interior configurations. Through continued study of construction methods, veneer combinations, period inlay techniques and interior composition, we place particular emphasis on authenticity and correct attribution. Understanding which materials were used together, how interiors were finished, and how hinges and mounts were constructed is essential when assessing genuine eighteenth and nineteenth century tea caddies. This depth of specialism allows collectors to purchase with confidence, whether acquiring a first example or adding to an established collection. What is Burr Walnut? Burr Walnut also known as figured Walnut is a highly prized wood which is formed by a growth deformation resulting from stress, disease or nurturing the tree in a specific way. Burr can be developed by blocking the sap flow of the tree by means of putting a French Walnut on top of the roots of an American Walnut. Due to the unusual properties, it is rare to come across a Walnut tree growing this way in the wild. Nurturing planted trees takes at least 80 years before it is mature enough to be cut for good purpose. Burr Walnut is highly desired for their unusual grain and pattern, used mostly in veneering larger pieces such as furniture would be joined by matching the veneer pieces or blending them together. For further information see our woods encyclopaedia on Burr Walnut. What is the Georgian Period? The Georgian period spans from 1714 to 1830 and covers the reigns of George I, George II, George III and George IV. It was a time of expanding trade, growing wealth and increased demand for domestic luxury goods within Britain. In furniture and decorative objects, Georgian design is associated with balance, proportion and restrained ornament. Influences ranged from Palladian architecture in the early eighteenth century to the neoclassical revival later in the period. Cabinet makers developed increasingly refined veneering techniques, fine inlay work and precise mouldings, while tea wares and storage boxes reflected the social importance of tea drinking within polite society. Tea caddies from the Georgian period were both practical and valuable household objects, designed to store costly imported teas securely while also displaying the owner’s taste and status. Why Buy from Mark Goodger Antiques? With over thirty five years of specialist experience, Mark Goodger Antiques is recognised internationally as a leading authority in antique boxes and related works of art. Every item offered has been personally selected by Mark, whose knowledge and judgement are trusted by collectors, institutions, museums, interior designers, and fellow dealers worldwide. Every purchase is supplied with a full supporting package for clarity and reassurance. This includes a Certificate of Authenticity, a detailed condition and care guide specific to your item, our most recent catalogue, and a separate invoice suitable for insurance and valuation purposes. Each piece is carefully examined prior to sale to ensure accuracy of description and quality. Your purchase is fully insured during transit and protected by our straightforward money back guarantee, allowing you to buy with complete confidence. We pride ourselves on transparency, expertise, and long term relationships with our clients, many of whom return to us repeatedly over decades. When you buy from Mark Goodger Antiques, you are purchasing from a specialist family business built on knowledge, trust, and an unrivalled focus on antique boxes.