Painted Box

Date1810-1825

MediumTulip poplar and paint

DimensionsOH: 4 ¾": OW: 5 15/16"; OD: 11 ½"

Credit LineGift of Juli Grainger

Object number2008.708.2

DescriptionRectangular box dovetailed at corners with bottom attached with wooden pegs; top edge of sides and one end molded; top, chamfered on three sides, slides from one end into a grooves in the sides and opposite end; recessed thumb catch at unchamfered end of top; box top and sides painted with abstract faux-grained or sponged patterns. Sides and ends have a blue rectangular reserve outlined in white with quarter round solid red fans in each corner surrounded by a yellow/brown border. Top painted blue (with possible later darkened varnish layer) with four-petal red flower in center, three-petal red flowers at each end, and single red petals in each corner enclosed by white quarter round line. Chamfered edge of top painted red.
Label TextWhile it was not necessary to ornament this utilitarian box, the contrasting colors and the graining pattern create a beautiful and exciting effect that must have pleased its owner. Many examples of this form exist without painted decoration.
ProvenanceDonor purchased from Don & Faye Walters in 1985.