Shaker Style Round Bentwood Box | American Antique

Description

A classic Shaker style round bentwood box. One of the most enduring and beautiful forms in American craft.

Dimensions

Why it’s here

Everything in the Homestedt Antiques collection was sourced from rural barns, markets, and dealers across the North East of the United States, England, and Sweden, the same regions that have inspired much of what Homestedt does. These are objects that have already lived a life. They were made by hand, used daily, and have arrived here still doing what they were always meant to do. We collect these pieces because they show the kind of character that comes from decades of use, the evidence of the maker’s hand, and a beauty that adds texture, history and warmth to a home.

What you’re seeing in this collection is just a small selection of our antiques. For the full range of our latest pieces, we recommend a visit to our North Branch, NY location where you’ll find an ever changing collection of pieces that have caught our eye.

About this piece

The Shaker oval box is one of the great achievements of American craft design, and the round bentwood box shares the same heritage of disciplined simplicity and fine execution. Made from thin strips of wood bent into shape and joined with characteristic precision, these boxes were produced by Shaker communities and their imitators throughout the 19th century for storing everything from herbs and sewing supplies to correspondence and small valuables. The form has barely changed because it arrived at something close to perfect. This example has the warm, even patina of a well-made object that has been carefully kept.

Condition

Good antique condition. Bentwood construction intact and sound. Lid fits well. Shows natural age-related patina consistent with careful use.

Care & display

Wipe clean with a dry or barely damp cloth. Keep away from prolonged moisture and direct sunlight. Apply a small amount of beeswax or furniture oil occasionally to keep the wood nourished.