Tea Caddy 1715 - 1725

This Tea Caddy, crafted by Simeon Soumaine, presents a study in contrasts: smooth, unblemished surfaces against areas of detailed engraving. The piece, made entirely of silver, has a cool and formal appearance, reflecting its function as an object of status and utility. The caddy's structure plays with geometric forms. An octagonal base rises to meet the container, with each panel reflecting light to emphasize its shape. Engraved decorations, enclosed within symmetrical cartouches, add a layer of complexity. Their swirling, organic shapes contrast with the geometric exactness of the container itself. This tension between naturalistic decoration and rigid structure embodies a balance typical of its era. Note how the lid, cylindrical and topped with a simple knob, is both functional and aesthetically integral. Its design mirrors the overall balance of ornamentation with practicality. The silver, acting as both medium and surface, invites us to consider the object not only for its utility but as a statement of wealth and taste, capturing the cultural values of a society in pursuit of refinement.