Unusual Japanned Lidded Tea Caddy - Age and Origin, anyone ?

I've just received delivery of my latest purchase, which is an unusual Japanned metal tea caddy, standing c. 13 cm in height.

It has gilded decoration, with a Chinoiserie scene and - what seems to me to be - pseudo-oriental characters on the remaining three sides. The panels appear to be individually soldered, rather from a single sheet of metal.
The metal is non-ferrous, possibly Zinc (?), but, to tell the truth, I've no idea, really.
The lid has a double rim - presumably to facilitate an effective seal, although, due to usage and age, the lid is pretty loose.

I assume that the caddy dates from sometime in the 19th century, but would be grateful if anyone with more experience than myself would be willing to suggest a more specific time period. Also, any suggestions as to origin would be sincerely appreciated.

Thanks for reading !!

 

Those letters look like Old English or Fraktur monograms. Beyond that we'll have to wait for an expert.

 

Nothing on the bottom to give a clue?

 

Sorry, no. Have attached a couple more pics - including the base. In my opinion, not a c20th mass produced item.

 

The base shows lots of wear. I am a novice, but that is something I learned here to watch for.

 

That means o-l-d, whether it means $$ remains to be seen. That tin has to be over a century old.