REGENCY TORTOISESHELL TEA CADDY.Early 19th century. Sarcophagus-form, with serpentine edges, conforming cover; hinged cover, opening to reveal two lined tea compartments, one with cover - 7 1/4 in. x 11 in. x 6 1/4 in. Estimate $400-600
PROVENANCE: Estate of Jean Schwartzstein, Rockville, MD
The cover with chips on three corners - two are large. The raised area of the cover with two chips on the underside. The body with crack on the tortoiseshell; some areas of tortoiseshell are dull in finish. The underside is missing some ivory along the edge; losses and tears on the leather cover. The underside of the cover with later velvet lining. There are cracks and chips on the ivory edges. There are scattered losses on the foil lining throughout. The inside of one tea compartment is missing a wood corner support; one has come loose and can be reglued. Only one tea compartment has a cover.
