- Document or ditty box in
old, crusty paint with exceptionally fine paneled decorations,
one on the front with a carved fish and the original owner's
initials and another on top with a wonderful carved floret. 11
½" W x 8 1/4" Deep x 5 ¾" high.
Probably made by or for an early 19th century fisherman or sailor
in the northeastern U.S. The fish carving likely represents a
codfish. All original. We carefully scraped multiple dots of
splattered white paint from the surface. There is a small blemish
on top which disappears when moistened, leading us to believe
that a new owner could retouch it easily, if desired. Original
key is inside. There may have once been an escutcheon or another
fitting on the exterior, but there is no remaining evidence that
there was one as opposed to a simple keyhole. A charming example
of early American folk art. (CD-7)
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