Lovely and unique figural item consisting of a Kate Greenway influenced Dickens’ style figural character which is attached to a small circular tea caddie or jam container that was meant to be left out for daily use in lieu of pantry storage. The circular side surface is adorned with a basket weave pressed design; the round rimmed top lid has, what appears to be, a diminutive silver plated attached cast piece of fruit shaped (apple/plum ) or camellia sinensis leaf (natural tea leaf) l on the top to lift it up. The lid has three holes in it so that air can get to the interior now and then when needed to prevent mold. Ironically, there is a closely fitted lid on the interior to keep air out and the tea or jam fresh— I guess it was a balancing act. The container is marked on the underneath “The Acme Silverplating Co.” with the “Ac” Logo at the bottom and “Quadruple Plate” below embossed. The Acme Silverplate company was located in Boston and commenced business in 1884 and bought out in 1898.
The container and figural are in very good and all original condition with absolutely no repairs or restoration of any kind. Minor pitting hear and there to the lid (see images) but overall 98% complete coverage of the original mellowed and patinated surface. There are no dents or flaws. Amazing that BOTH lids are still there and intact.
Dimensions: 3 1/2″ high x 4″ deep x 3 1/4″ dia. (An American quarter has been placed in the primary image to present a sense of scale).
Provenance: From my own 35 year collection of Victorian figural Napkin rings and related figural items; having acquired this in 1995.
Note: I am a second generation antiques dealer and have been in business, buying, selling, and collecting, for 50 years; I am also a member of several prestigious antique associations. Thus, I am well qualified to inspect and evaluate the products I offer for sale and I guarantee this to be authentic and as I have described.