Country Chippendale
Red Painted
Meetinghouse Speaker’s Box   

Imagine a gathering in a colonial meetinghouse more than 200 years ago. A speaker stands before them, with a book, bible, or papers resting on the sloping lid of this box……

Northeast, likely New England, ca. late 18th century. Original historic very dry early red paint over the first red, all on white pine. An exceedingly rare survivor, this box was designed for use in a Meetinghouse, typically the focal center of a colonial town, used for meetings, church, political speeches, emergency gatherings, militia mobilization, and many other civic events.

With a distinctive early American character, this country cabinetmaker-made box is sized to sit on a tabletop or chest, its gently sloping overhanging lid providing space for the speaker’s readings. The case sits on a square-bracket base and is fitted with thumbnail-molded drawers. The lid is edged with applied moldings. Joinery is by large DOVETAILS and WOODEN PEGS, no nails were used. In a high state of preservation with a superb, complex, dry crackled painted surface. Heavier wear on the right side of the lid apparently reflects many speakers grasping that side with their right hand as they spoke. The back and underside have a rich, undisturbed natural patina. Excellent structural condition, with only a minor ancient loss to a portion of the lip of one drawer. Iron hinges, and patinated brass pulls, appear original. Given the stout pine stock, the box is weighty.

Dimensions (inches)…Case: 24x12 (a perfect 2:1 ratio); lid 25 ½ x 12 5/8; base: 25 ½ x 12 ¾; height: 15 7/8 x 14 5/8; pine stock: 1 inch thick.

Provenance includes: An important long time Lancaster, Pennsylvania collection. A compelling piece for collectors of early Americana who value rarity, original painted surfaces, and untouched character.