Chequered Harlequin Tea Caddy

The body of the caddy is composed of alternating panels of iridescent mother-of-pearl and warm tortoiseshell, creating a diamond-patterned inlay that catches the light with remarkable depth and colour variation.

The piece is framed and accented with polished silver mounts, lending a cool contrast to the rich, warm hues of the tortoiseshell. At the centre of the front panel is a delicately crafted silver escutcheon with an inset keyhole.  

Overall, this mother-of-pearl and tortoiseshell harlequin tea caddy is a remarkable example of Georgian luxury and craftsmanship, embodying both utility and opulence — a small yet exquisite symbol of the era’s domestic refinement and global trade influence.