A charming relic of Scottish domestic life, this late 19th-century tea caddy reminds us to be “cannie wi’ the tea” — that is, careful or thrifty — as tea was once a true luxury. Crafted from tinplate with warm brass fittings and hand-cut motto plaques, it carries the inscription “Be Cannie wi’ the Tea, Guidwife” in proud Scots dialect.
The caddy’s aged patina tells a story of everyday ritual — the careful spooning of loose tea leaves, the hum of a kettle, the comfort of home. A wonderful piece of Victorian wit and wisdom, it would display beautifully on open shelves or among a collection of antique kitchenwares and Scottish curiosities.
Origin: Scotland or Northern England, circa 1880–1910
Materials: Tinplate and brass
Dimensions: 7” H x 4” D
Condition: Authentic wear and patina consistent with age; small dents and surface marks add to its character
How long will it take to receive my order?
Your order is shipped from our location in Calgary, Alberta, Canada. We aim to have all packages out our door within 1 to 3 business days.
Your order will be shipped using a courier such as Canada Post, UPS, or Purolator. Depending on your distance from us, or if border crossing is involved, orders will take between 3 and 10 business days to arrive. Saturday and Sunday are not business days for mail in Canada.
We do not currently ship or deliver large items such as furniture.
Can I return my item?
Shopping online can be difficult and we hope you love your purchase. We have limits on what can be returned and how. Please read our in depth return policy and ask questions prior to your purchase to avoid disappointments.
New items can be returned within 14 days of receipt for exchange or store credit. All other items including vintage and seasonal are considered final sale. Please look carefully at photos and descriptions to avoid any disappointment with regards to size or condition.
If for some reason you are not satisfied with your purchase we are happy to accept the return of any new item in the exact condition in which it was received. Please contact us to receive return address information.
The buyer remains responsible for the costs to return any item. Please package the item in the manner it was sent to you.
