Thrilling and Singular Spoon Rack/Wall Box  

Maine, ca. mid-18th century, yet could well be earlier.

Untouched. Original bone-dry red, gray, and black paint on pine. A remarkable one-of-a-kind survivor with a mix of primitive joinery (early nails, including rose heads with simple butted joinery) yet inventive folk-art carving showing how important this box was in its 18th century home.

The shaped backboard is centered by three deeply carved roundels (two six-point rosettes flanking a bold pinwheel) executed with the uncomplicated ornamentation typical of early upper New England. One can easily see and feel the tool marks of the maker.

Stirring scale of about 25 ½ inches tall x 14 wide x 6 deep. The modest means of the original owners shown by spaces for only a handful of spoons. The deep well probably held knives, candles, etc.

That it has survived is sufficient representation of condition to those who understand its desirability and rarity…..Ancient losses can be seen particularly in the lower right corner and behind at the shoulders and neck.

This is for the passionate collector who seeks special country early Americana and covets the visual and emotional character of an untouched ancient painted surface.

It would be a highlight of a collection. Provenance includes Hollis Brodrick who acquired it from an early Maine home; then private Northeast collections.