Sewing Box
PeriodDated 1729
Place MadePossibly Delaware Valley, U.S.A.
MediumYellow pine
Dimensions4.38 × 9.75 in. (11.1 × 24.8 cm)
ClassificationsNeedlework
Credit LineGift of the Riker Estate, 1983
Object number1983.9.21
DescriptionA cylindrical box constructed of a single pine panel formed into a 3 1/2 inch high hoop, a four inch overlap with both panel ends scarfed to reduce bulk, then fastened with a row of split stitch wood lashing applied vertically. Additional lashing applied vertically 2 1/2 inches to the right of the main lashing row. 1/4 inch circular base nailed to the hoop bottom with wrought nails. Lid with matching construction, including 2 1/2 inch hoop height, two rows of vertical lashing, and a 1/4 circular lid fastened to the lid hoop with wrought nails. The inside of the lid includes rough panels of wool flannel glued to lid/hoop seam for additional strengthening. Both lid and container are decorated with extensive chip carvings. The lid is transected with feathered "X" lines dividing lid space into four quadrants, each wedge ornamented with a checkerboard square with feathered corners. In one wedge is carved the date "1729," the opposite wedge includes the initials "MD." The sides of the lid are ornamented with chip carved square crosses, vertical feathered bands, diamond scallop panels, and a through-carved heart on the outer end of the panel. The box base hoop has similar carving and decoration. The base hoop decoration extend up to an inch below the edge in order to accomodate the lid. "KAS" is roughly carved into the base underside.NotesThis unusual and attractive box came from the Riker Estate. The accompanying tag notes "Rare Delaware Valley sewing box, yellow pine, with chip carving of a rare quality. Note lacings and heart motifs on laps. Initialed and dated 1729. Probably a courting gift."
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