A late 1700s mahogany tea chest/caddy incorporating a secret drawer at the side. The side pannel moves up and a drawer pulls out.
The secret drawers were used to store teaspoons,  documents, unadultered tea, away from the prying eyes of the staff.
This extra feature made the tea chest alot more expensive and so reflected the wealth of the owner.
It measures 22.5cm w x 12.5cm d x 15cm h.
C1780