Preliminary identification
Photo reference
3 uploaded photos
Overview
A charming miniature wooden chest featuring a hand-painted 'Patriotic Bear' motif with American flags and a star-spangled lid. This piece mimics the proportions of a full-sized blanket chest, complete with a scalloped base and faux-drawer detailing.
Story
During the late 20th-century Americana revival, homes across the country were filled with 'Country' decor. This little chest captures that cozy, nostalgic yearning for a simpler, handcrafted American past.
Maker / Origin
While likely produced by a giftware company like Enesco or a similar boutique craft supplier, this piece follows the tradition of 'Tole painting'—a decorative folk art style that became a massive hobbyist movement in the 1980s.
Condition & Value
The piece shows some minor edge wear and scuffing consistent with age. The hinges appear functional, and the paint remains vibrant. This 'played-with' patina is actually preferred by some collectors of this style. Condition is average for its age. Value is driven primarily by decorative appeal rather than rarity.
Full Research
Sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance pulled from recent auction results.
Build on this identification
Layer in sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance.
Comparable demand stays strongest where maker, originality, and venue confidence line up. Broader examples still trade, but the range tightens quickly when provenance, condition, or selling lane fit is missing.
Best Venue
Specialty auction or a focused dealer with buyers already in this lane.
Signed example with light edge wear and original frame.
Comparable format with stronger provenance and cleaner surface.
Smaller related piece with visible craquelure and trimmed margins.
Period match with softer condition and weaker subject matter.
Close market lane comp with similar material and presentation.