Tea caddy 1739

This silver tea caddy was crafted in the early 18th century by Augustinus van der Steene. During this period, tea was more than a beverage, it was a symbol of wealth, colonial power, and global trade, profoundly influencing social rituals and economic structures. Consider the intricate designs adorning the caddy, they reflect the societal value placed on luxury and refinement. The caddy becomes a silent participant in the story of colonialism; it represents the complex relationship between Europe, Asia, and the Americas, and the exploitation that fueled this trade. How does it feel to know that this object, so beautiful, once stood at the center of immense historical and social imbalance? It is a reminder of how everyday objects can embody histories of power, identity, and global exchange.