This wonderful 18th century slide lid box has excellent form and surface, superb condition, and rarity. Pine and cherry, constructed with rose head nails, with a warm red wash surface. The slide lid has applied molding and a heavily chamfered raised center panel that terminates in a lollipop handle. Carved from one piece of wood, the backboard of the box features a lollipop handle that echoes the one on the lid, and a unique ¾ circle shaped handle. At some point in its early life, the handle split and was repaired in-period with a piece of hickory that was bent to the shape of the handle and attached with rose head nails.
Carved into the back of the box is the year 1763 and initials P.V.B., purportedly Peter Van Buskirk, of one of the founding families of Bergen County, NJ. During the period this box was made, it was quite common to present household items such as spoon boards, candle boxes, and coverlets as gifts, marked with a date and the initials of either the maker or recipient.
This distinctive piece can stand upright or lay flat on a table top, or may be hung, A significant addition to a collection of fine woodenwares, 18th century antiques, and/or historic artifacts. Dimensions: width 10”; height (not including handle) 13.25”, including handle 19.5”; depth 4”.