Antique Chinese Qing Rose Medallion Porcelain Square Tea Caddy Box

This fabulous antique Chinese export Qing Rose Medallion tea caddy box depicts traditional village scenes on opposite sides with panels of bird and floral design on the alternating sides. The lid has the traditional central medallion surrounded by alternating figural and floral designs. It has an unmarked bottom which dates its origin to prior to 1890 and after approximately 1850, since this style of Chinese porcelain was first made in the mid-1800s to satisfy the export demand from Europe and later to the United States. This tea caddy has an interesting provenance. It was owned by the man who was the Chief Medical Officer at the Panama Canal during the first half of the 20th century where and when this was obtained. I’m told they were friends with and entertained young Ike and Mamie Eisenhower. So possibly Ike was made a cup of tea from this box! Whether this happened or not, this Chinese porcelain box is wonderfully beautiful and fine; and, it’s a delightful story! I know you have the perfect spot to display this magnificent treasure.