A charming and varied group of nine Canton enamel tea caddies, each retaining its original fitted lid and decorated in the vibrant famille rose palette characteristic of Guangzhou (Canton) enamelling. The caddies are of differing forms square, hexagonal, and waisted.
The rich enamel colours rose pinks, turquoise, cobalt blue, iron red, and white, are complemented by delicate gilt highlights.
Each piece is finely painted with a range of traditional motifs, including floral sprays, scrolling foliage, and figural scenes, all reserved within shaped panels and bordered by intricate diaper and foliate patterns. The domed covers are similarly decorated, many with central roundels featuring stylised blooms.
Such caddies were produced for both domestic use and export, reflecting the growing global demand for tea and the refinement of associated wares during the Qing dynasty.
Largest: 20x10cm, smallest 10x9.5cm
18th-19th Century
Provenance: An old Suffolk collection.