Description
A beautifully preserved Swedish bentwood storage box from 1847, hand-painted in rich blue tones with charming maritime folk art scenes. This substantial piece carries the quiet dignity of 19th-century Scandinavian craftsmanship, originally made for practical household storage and cherished through nearly two centuries.
The sides feature naïve coastal landscapes with sailing boats and shoreline cottages, anchored by a bold anchor motif at the centre. The lid displays delicate floral garlands surrounding the original hand-painted inscription “Anno 1847”, marking its year of creation.
Key Features:
- Original hand-painted inscription dated Anno 1847
- Expressive maritime folk art with anchor and coastal scenes
- Traditional bentwood construction with fitted lid and wooden handle
- Rich blue-green colour palette that complements both rustic and modern interiors
- Very clean interior with no odours, ideal for storage or display
Specifications:
- Origin: Sweden
- Material: Bentwood with hand-painted decoration
- Length: 54 cm
- Width: 28 cm
- Height: 20 cm
Condition:
- Good antique condition with authentic wear throughout
- Painted surfaces show age-related rubbing, small losses, and surface marks consistent with nearly two centuries of use
- Base has been replaced at some point – a common and practical repair that does not detract from the box’s integrity
- Structurally sound and displays beautifully
A rare surviving example of Swedish bentwood storage from the mid-19th century. This piece brings both history and functionality to any space, testament to the enduring appeal of handcrafted Scandinavian folk art.
