English

circa 1780 - 1790

George III 18th century period oval tea caddy attributed to Henry Clay.

The black caddy is decorated with classical figures in the Etruscan style with bands of classical anthemia and floral decoration to the lid. The lid retains its solid silver handle and opens to reveal a gilt metal rimmed top and tin foil interior.

Henry Clay produced items ranging from small tea caddies, trays, knife boxes and dressing cases to small pieces of japanned furniture.

Clay moved to London from Birmingham, first establishing a workshop at 18 King Street in Covent Garden, where his array of clients included the Royal Family, eventually becoming 'Japanner in Ordinary to His Majesty and His Royal Highness the Prince of Wales'. Other clients included members of high society, notably Robert Child of Osterley, the Dukes of Bedford, Horace Walpole and Baron Scarsdale of Kedleston.

Dimensions

Height 11.00cm (4.33 inches)

Width 12.00cm (4.72 inches)

Depth 9.00cm (3.54 inches)

Stock No: 19026