Chinoiserie tole decorated tin tea canister, with the original finish from Edwardian period England c.1910 now mounted as a lamp. Made from a metal container that was originally used to store tea in a food shop. Before the invention of individual tea bags the only way to purchase tea was in loose leaves sold by weight. Because every person liked their tea a different strength loose tea enabled them to add as much or as little tea needed to make the desired flavour. As tea became less and less expensive to import and the consumption of tea became a national trait quite of ten tea was sold by number. The number on this canister is "3" so easy enough to order half a pound of Number Three tea to take home. The tea tin has been rewired for American electricity. Lamp measures 10"x7"x19 and with harp and shade 28". Shade 18"x18"x13". Weight 6 pds 8 oz. PROVENANCE: A Private Charleston SC Estate.

good, minor scuffs to back