Austrian / German Biedermeier Period Inlaid Burl Ash Octagonal Tea Caddy c. 1825

  

This fine European Continental octagonal shaped Biedermeier teacaddy has been in my collection for at least 35 years. I believe it was made in Austria or Germany. It is veneered in what I believe is burl ash or possibly faded burl mulberry. It has a lovely octagonal shape and the lid is segmented like a pie with contrasting veneers.

The base is inlaid along the bottom with a black tropical hardwood. The interior was probably originally lined with paper but now is unlined. It is 5 1/5" tall and is 5 3/4" in diameter. It is in good restored condition with a bit of veneer infill in the top but otherwise structurally sound with no loose veneer or joints.

Due to shrinkage, the top a tiny bit off center from the base but I think this is very inobtrusive. I think the box dates to c.