Tea caddy c. 1760

This octagonal tea caddy, made in the 18th century, demonstrates the popularity of tea in Europe. Made of porcelain and decorated in underglaze blue, it features a variety of designs including repeating floral patterns, a figure under an umbrella and a landscape with a pagoda. The caddy, a container for storing loose tea leaves, is a testament to the artistry and craftsmanship of the anonymous artist. The blue and white decoration is characteristic of the Qing dynasty in China, which produced porcelain for export. The caddy's small size suggests its intended use in a domestic setting.