Overview
This is a classic example of 'treen'—small, functional wooden household objects—featuring rhythmic gouge-work carving and a primitive sliding lid.
1Identify
Preliminary identification
Hand-Carved Folk Art Sliding Lid Box (Treen), c. 1880-1920
Photo reference
5 uploaded photos
Story
In the remote rural communities of the 19th century, long winter nights were often spent by the hearth with a single tool: the carving knife.
Maker / Origin
While the specific carver remains anonymous, they were part of a deep 'peasant art' tradition where woodworking skills were passed from father to son.
Condition & Value
The box shows significant signs of age, including a deep, authentic patina and some chipping on the edges of the side rails. Value is driven by the authentic hand-carved texture and the presence of the original sliding lid, which is often lost.
Research
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