This 1800's pantry box considered utilitarian treenware, was a very important staple to the early settlers. Critters in the pantry were a troublesome matter to colonial women. Dry goods like flour, sugar, grain and the like had to be placed in covered food storage boxes to help protect them. These boxes were imported from Europe until American factories began producing them during the late18th century.
Some were painted in pleasing colors, like this one however, there is only a whisper of paint that remains. These boxes actually brightened up a plain corner when stacked together while others were varnished in plain wood. Pantry boxes were fashioned in graduated sizes. The largest held cheese or butter, the smallest contained pills or spices and the in ~ between sizes accommodated everything else. Each had a snug fitting lid. So interesting!
This pantry box has a nice chestnut hue with traces of sage green paint throughout. Bentwood construction incorporated with round nails on both the front and sides add charm and character. Simple in form with a nice lapped over design which served a purpose and was considered a main ~ stay in the19th Century Buttery.
The top of the lid does have a tight crack that is also visible underneath as can be seen in image 5 & 7. There are areas of darkened wood apparent here as well. A small nail is missing from the side of the lid however, the other nails are all accounted for. See image 6. At the very bottom, just below the lapped over section, there is a little 2 1/2" long sliver of wood missing as shown in image 3. This was done long ago as the paint underneath still remains.
The inside lapped over piece of wood has pulled away from it's counterpart about a half an inch. See image 10. Nail bleed is also visible on the inside, as well as some dark areas consistent with age shown in image 11. A piece of lapped over wood on the inside lid can be seen in image 8.
The bottom reveals a piece of wood missing that is next to the edge. This is about 3" long & a half an inch wide. The exposed nail no longer has the wood to completely secure this section and it does give a little when pressure is applied. See image 12. The other nail on the opposite side is doing a very good job of holding the bottom in place. The inside of the box has a faint smell of spices present.
Great larger size and looks fabulous stacked with the medium and small boxes I am also offering. Wonderful early primitive that promises to stand out in any kitchen! Enjoy!
Measurements are almost 9" across the top & 8 1/2" across the bottom, & is 4" 1/2"Tall.
