We call this a "collector's box" because one can never be certain of all the little things it may have held over the last 160 (or so) years. With a divided, lift-out tray, it is perfect for organizing and safekeeping any manner of small treasures: pens, medals, arrowheads, gemstones, watches—even jewelry or sewing supplies. We have inserted small (removable) ultra suede pads along the tray and bottom portion of the box to help protect delicate items.
It was made during the Civil War period—the 1860's—although it has no apparent military connections. And, although it is handsome (without being dour), it could have been used by either a man or a woman. In this period, a woman's sewing or quilting box would not necessarily have been highly-decorated. This box is made of walnut which had been plentiful in pre-Colonial America. But, during the 18th Century, furniture makers significantly depleted the land's abundance of walnut. Furthermore, a walnut blight in Europe increased the demand for walnut imported from America. The depletion of walnut continued into the 19th Century, especially during the Civil War—since walnut was the wood of choice for gunstocks. By the 20th Century, airplane propeller makers paid a premium for walnut. Therefore, the fact that this box is made of walnut tells us that the woodworker wanted to make a fine piece for an appreciative customer. Click on the photo above to learn more about this handsome box.
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.