Rare Carved Box  

Probably New England, ca. late 18th to early 19th century.
Mixed woods, including white pine, in original Spanish Brown paint.

Extensively and deeply carved in the Friesen manner of the old country. Carved symbols include 6 and 8-pointed stars, rosettes, pinwheels, fans, and geometrics. Note how carefully they are laid out and executed, even on the slightly domed lid. These carvings often had symbolic meaning beyond just decorative, ranging from rebirth to harmony to good fortune.

Long ago the back-top rail supporting the hinges appears to have been repaired, the top-left molding replaced, one of the hinge pins was replaced, and lock is gone. Note the black accretion buildup underneath, suggesting frequent use by the fire.

Small size of just about 9 1/2 inches long x 5 deep x 5 ½ high. From a long time Massachusetts collection from Peter Eaton.