Tea caddy/ box - Bone china

Here is an extraordinary piece of history: a very rare Chinese export porcelain tea bottle canister from the Qing dynasty, commissioned directly in China in 1719 to celebrate the title of Baronet for Sir John Fellowes.

The object bears on the front the majestic heraldic coat of arms of the Fellowes family. The crucial element that makes this piece unique for collectors is the presence of the Red Hand of Ulster inescutcheon centered on the shield. This emblem was conferred and integrated into armorial bearings only on those awarded the hereditary title of Baronet; therefore, since Sir John Fellowes was created 1st Baronet of Carshalton on 20 January 1719, the commissioning of this tea service can be placed with absolute certainty in that year. (see memorial photo)

The bottle, with the octagonal molded shape typical of tea containers of the era, was produced, with high probability, in Jingdezhen for the body in porcelain and the blue underglaze parts, while the refined Imari palette decorations were done in Canton by decorators working from the client’s drawing.

As clearly shown in the photos, the piece has over 300 years of history and retains its exceptional charm intact; the bottle body displays vivid colors and a splendid luster. It is worth noting a chip/missing piece on the ceramic neck edge, invisible when the bottle has its lid.
The lid provided features a floral decoration and pronounced superficial crazing. However, after careful examination, I believe it is not original and contemporaneous with the bottle, but a later addition (likely 19th century or later). It is present for completeness but does not contribute to the piece’s authentic value.

Rarity:
The pieces of this armorial service commissioned by Sir John Fellowes are extremely rare. A fundamental market reference is provided by the Christie’s sale of the famous Benjamin F. Edwards III collection (Lot 252), where a pair of Sir Fellowes armorial Imari porcelains (circa 1720) sold for $5,019. (See screenshot)

IN SUMMARY

Type: Armorial tea bottle/tea container or “Tea Caddy”
Origin: China – Jingdezhen (porcelain and blue) / Canton (armorial enamels and export gold)
Year/Period: circa 1719. Kangxi period - Qing Dynasty
Commissioner: Sir John Fellowes, 1st Baronet of Carshalton
Technique: Porcelain painted underglaze blue, Imari enamels (iron red) and gold
Condition: Excellent body with a chip on the ceramic neck; lid not original
Dimensions: 11.5 x 9 x 5.2 cm (including stopper)
Weight: 290 g with stopper - 269 g without stopper

A museum piece of utmost historical, heraldic, and collecting importance. Do not miss this rare object for your collections!

Happy bidding to all!