Beautiful Hand-Carved
Painted Ladle  

Likely Northeast colonial, possibly Woodlands Indian, appears to be maple, early to mid-19th century, retaining its original vivid blue paint.

The handle is distinguished by a bold, stylized heart, while the underside of the shallow bowl is subtly “peaked” in a form sometimes described as “turtle back.” The bowl tapers gracefully. The chamfered edges and refined transitions reflect a confident and practiced hand. Application was likely as a food ladle or grain scoop. Given the prominent heart, superb carving, and blue paint, it was probably made as a gift.

Condition is excellent, with only a minor old chip to the edge of the bowl. Length about 8 inches; bowl about 4 1/3 x 4 ¾. Provenance includes David Good; private Northeast collection.