This oval pantry box and cover dates from the mid-nineteenth century. Sometimes called Harvard lap Shaker, this box probably originated in Hingham, Massachusetts from a Hersey family box cooper.
The base has one left finger and the cover has one right finger. Retaining the original Windsor green paint.
Condition: Excellent original condition with no cracks, loose edges or repairs.
Dimensions: 5” W x 3 ½” D x 1 ½” H
950
Painted pantry box, Pennsylvania, 19th C. This splendid little pantry box has a salmon painted surface. The nicely carved lid and flat base are about 1/2" thick from solid pine. The thin side band overlaps with a butt joint held tight by nails. Note the 1 3/4" break in the top flange. Three nails are missing from the top.
Dimensions: 3 7/8" W x 2 3/4" D x 1 1/2" H.
150
Presentation firkin made for Robert Merrill Purves (Canton, NY, 1877-1943). The painted decoration includes the recipient's name and a Masonic symbol. Retaining the original surface, the firkin is painted blue green with red bands.
Construction is of tongue-and-groove softwood staves, tapered lap-joint wood banding with copper tacks. The handle is of bent wood and peg attachments.
The condition is excellent. As a presentation piece, it was likely never used for storage.
14" h x 15 1/2" d
Made in Canton, New York. Recently acquired in Lancaster County, Pennsylvania.
2,900
Stamped firkin made by C & A Wilder (South Hingham, MA). Retaining the original surface, the firkin is painted blue green. The initials "M Y" appear in script surrounding the maker's stamp. Shaker clergy often marked their wares with M Y to indicate ministry. Thus, this piece was likely the property of a Shaker minister.
Construction is of tongue-and-groove softwood staves, tapered lap-joint wood banding with copper tacks. The handle is of bent wood and peg attachments.
The condition is excellent. Original surface with minimal wear.
14 1/2" h x 15" d
Recently acquired in Lancaster County, Pennsylvania.
2,200
Pennsylvania basket in original balsam green paint. The construction is oak splint in rectangular form, The ribs are also oak splints. The handle is bent hickory. The star pattern at the weaving intersection over the handle along the rim is a characteristic Pennsylvania pattern. The splints were painted prior to weaving, leading to superior results with no exposed unpainted areas and no paint filling in gaps between splints. 19th C.
The condition is excellent. Some wear to paint and minor losses.
14" h. x 18" w. x 13 ½" d.
800