Book-shaped box

Date19th century (late)

MediumPainted wood, leather

DimensionsOL: 8 3/8"; OW: 6 1/2"; OH: 1 7/8"

Credit LineMuseum Purchase

Object number1961.708.4,A-B

DescriptionBox in form of a book. Red "cover" with gold corners and frame inside of which is star on front and tulip on back. Designs made by pencil, nail or other sharp object. Can see pencil outlines of frame. Rounded binding is black with gold bands. Gold edged. Pages are pulled from between covers by red leather tab nailed to inside. Box is lined on bottom with marbleized paper. Rear side of box has keyhole shape cut out of center. Letter inside drawer, dated 1861, from Leesburg (Virginia or Georgia?)asks firm of Clark & Son for credit for a Mr. Edward Tarman (?).
Label TextThe maker of this box used his skills to create an appealing as well as useful object. Boxes in the form of books enjoyed continued popularity through the centuries.