The bulk of David and Susan Werner's Scandinavian artworks (and artful items)—which were beautifully displayed at the Frick Museum Pittsburgh—were made in the Late Nineteenth and Early Twentieth Centuries. This comports with a period of vigorous national self-expression on the part of Nordic countries. They were eager to promote their identities as patriotic, independent countries—or countries which wanted to be independent from each other and from the dominant Russian Empire. Nordic designers and artists looked-backwards to their country's ancient folk designs, aesthetic themes and tales from local folklore. This practice of "looking back" also occurred within various worldwide Art Nouveau movements, which overlapped with the period in question (and which we'll look at tomorrow). Today, we'll share some items with a more "traditional folk craft" aesthetic.
Shown above, a Nineteenth Century Norwegian wooden flour box, chip-carved and hand-painted. A piece like this would hang in the kitchen, storing flour for quick access. The carved graphics may be reminiscent of other known "schools" of woodworking, particularly that of the Frisians and the Pennsylvania Dutch. The Frisians (from islands off of the Netherlands and Germany) had a robust exchange of trade and culture with the Norwegians. And similar aesthetics are to be found in the graphic arts of America's Pennsylvania Dutch communities.
The painted wooden "bridal box" (also called a "tine box"), shown above, is a fancy evolution of more utilitarian bentwood boxes—which had been made for centuries to store household commodities. Norwegian grooms would make (or commission) a fancy, decorated box for his new bride—to be presented to her as a token of love. In such a special container, sometimes bearing her initials (as the box above does), a newly married woman might store small, precious items: ribbon, lace, or small personal items. This one was made around 1850.
Here's a another Nineteenth Century Norwegian wooden bridal box—a utilitarian style which is elevated with its carving, painting and fancy legs (plus a handle).
Though our Greenwich Village store is now permanently closed, LEO Design is still alive and well! Please visit our on-line store where we continue to sell Handsome Gifts (www.LEOdesignNYC.com).
To arrange a visit our Pittsburgh showroom (by private appointment only), please call 917-446-4248.