Hand-Turned Treenware Chalice with Folk Art Floral Decoration

Story

Before plastic, wood was the soul of the home. This vessel likely served as a 'sweetmeat' jar or a keepsake box. The hand-painted edelweiss-style flower suggests a maker honoring Alpine or rural heritage through simple, honest craft.

Maker / Origin

While the specific turner is unknown, this piece belongs to the 'treen' tradition—small domestic wooden objects. These were often made by local woodworkers or gifted as 'love tokens,' where the maker would spend hours at a lathe to create a perfectly fitting lid for a loved one.

Condition & Value

The wood shows a lovely aged patina with minor surface scuffs consistent with age. The painting remains remarkably clear, though there is slight thinning of the pigment. The finial appears intact, which is rare for these pieces. Good condition preserves the mid-range value.