These wonderful bellows were found on Maryland's Eastern Shore and boast great primitive folk art decoration on both sides. Dating from roughly the mid 1800's, the hand painted scene on the front shows several boats on a pond or river surrounded with a primitive forest and two gentlemen reclining on the lower right. The reverse side has a twisting vine with leaves on a dark green ground. This reminds us of Rufus Porter-type wall paintings found in homes and taverns in the early 1800's and is absolutely charming. The bellows measures 17 1/2" long from top to tip and about 8 1/4" wide across the middle. There is a piece of leather missing near the bottom of the front as seen in photo #2 (about 1 1/2" wide x 1 high) and an area of wear to the paint at the top just before the handles start (2"- 3" across and about 1" high). There is also some expected wear to the leather due to usage, but after 150+ years it is in good condition and the mechanism still functions. We love the folk art appeal and painted surface which are so hard to come by at an affordable price these days and we are pleased to be able to offer this at this price point. We know you'll love it too, and what a great addition it will be to your country home!
~Freight (Standard Mail) included, however Insurance is optional and can be purchased @ checkout ~ within the continental U.S.
