Skip to main content
Amber Glass Tea Leaf Canister
Image courtesy of the Barack Obama Presidential Library
Amber Glass Tea Leaf Canister
Image courtesy of the Barack Obama Presidential Library

Amber Glass Tea Leaf Canister

Artifact SeriesDomestic Gifts
Artifact IDDO.04292011-65-1.a-d
Object Type Canister, Tea
Manufacturer (Founded 1987)
Intended Recipient (American, 1964)
Medium glass, metal, wood, adhesive
DimensionsOverall - 3D (.a-c: Canister and Lid on Stand) H 7 in x Diam 4 in (17.8 cm x 10.2 cm )
 Overall - 3D (.d: Spoon) H 1/2 in x W 4 5/8 in x D 7/8 in (1.3 cm x 11.7 cm x 2.3 cm )
Physical DescriptionAmber glass tea leaf canister (.a) with a lid (.b), stand (.c), and spoon (.d). Engraved throughout the body of the caniser are Chinese characters with an emblem in the center. The bottom and rim of the canister have gold-toned metal trimming. The canister lid has a gold-toned metal handle in the shape of a two headed dragon. The black wooden base has a swirling gold bottom with feet and a plaque with a message in Chinese. The included spoon has a key like design on the end.
Custodial History / ProvenanceThe item was a gift from a member of the general public to First Lady Michelle Obama during the Obama Administration. It was received through the Office of the President and maintained there until its transfer to the National Archives in January 2017 for deposit with the Obama Presidential Library.Additional Details
National Archives Catalog CollectionBarack Obama Artifact Collection (National Archives Identifier 63542091)
National Archives Catalog SeriesDomestic Gifts (National Archives Identifier 66540613)
Use Restriction StatusRestricted - Possibly
Use Restriction NoteCopyright or other proprietary rights may be held by individuals or entities other than the Obama Presidential Library. The Obama Presidential Library does not warrant that the use of materials will not infringe on the rights of third parties holding the rights to these works, or make any representations or warranties with respect to the application or terms of any international agreement, treaty, or protections that may apply. It is your responsibility to determine and satisfy any copyright or other use restrictions. Pertinent regulations can be found at 36 C.F.R 1254.62.
In Collection(s)
Related Event(s)
    Not on view
    Related Links