Chinese Tea Caddy

Stout metal drum ringed with ridges, dented a little and pleased with itself.

This pewter tea caddy from Fujian Province is from Fujian Province, China, and dates to the late 19th or early 20th century. Fujian is one of China's major tea-growing provinces, and tea has long been stored in tightly lidded containers to keep out moisture and odor. Cylindrical vessel in dull grey metal, banded with four raised ridges and a flared foot. The rim at the top steps inward. The surface is softly dented and carries small scratches and a gentle shine. It is 6 inches wide, 6 deep and 8 high.

Ribs, dents and a certain bulk of character.