Carved
Love Token
Bird Box

American, probably Northeastern, ca. late 19th century.

Hardwood with original paint and pigmented over-varnish. A clever swing-out drawer is concealed within the base, perhaps to store or even hide jewelry. Most unusual. The maker carved a heart-shaped nest using layers of chip-carving, with a charming little bird perched on top.

The carver’s skill and thought are quite apparent. After careful carving, the entire was painted black, and while still wet the high points were revealed by rubbing the wet paint with a cloth. Once dried, red, yellow, and black embellishments were added to the bird, then the entire was generously over-varnished, giving the box a glazed appearance.

Superb condition. About 4 ½ x 5 inches x 3 ½ tall.