Set Of Three Toleware Tea Canisters Faux Wood 19th Century ANTIQUE
Set of three toleware storage canisters of graduated size made during the late 19th century. All three tins were most likely used for storing tea. Lined with coloured stripes on a hand painted background of faux wood and knotting. Supplied with the original lids.
Made of thin metal sheet, storage containers (also named toleware) were commonly seen in shops of the Georgian and Victorian age that sold commodities such as tea. The range of blends would be kept in individual tins that were on displayed behind the shop counter. Once a customer had made his choice, the shop keeper would remove the lid from the relevant canister and weigh the tea leaves before packing the goods up. A lovely buying process that can still be experienced in a shop like Fortnum & Mason in London.
The three toleware canisters that we have currently available were most likely used for keeping tea leaves fresh. Still looking magnificent after so much time and usage. All three tins vary in design, size and original faux wood decorations. Only the hand painting skills of an artist can achieve the amazing knotted wood surfaces. The thin bands that run around the tins provide a striking contrast with the tanned brown backgrounds.
All three antique tea canisters are in good condition and supplied with well fitting lids. As expected with items that were in daily commercial use, there is plenty of wear and tear with an irregular surface in places. As a group these toleware containers are extremely decorative with a pleasing appearance and vintage look, perhaps for a shelf in your kitchen?
Product summary
Place Of Origin: England
Material: Sheet metal
Manufacturer Marks & Inscriptions: No
Period: Late 19th Century
Provenance: No
Weight: 500g, 750g and 800g approx.
Size - Item 1: Height 29cm (11.25 inches) x Diameter - Widest Point 18cm (7 inches) approx.
Size - Item 2: Height 31cm (12.25 inches) x Diameter - Widest Point 19.5cm (7.75 inches) approx.
Size - Item 3: Height 34cm (13.25 inches) x Diameter - Widest Point 22cm (8.5 inches) approx.
