Box

Makerpossibly American

Collections

ClassificationsDECORATIVE ARTS

Date1745

Mediumoak with traces of paint

Dimensions5 × 16 1/2 × 12 1/4 in. (12.7 × 41.9 × 31.1 cm.)

InscribedI M C; 1745

Credit LineThe Huntington Library, Art Museum, and Botanical Gardens. Gail-Oxford Collection

Status

Not on view

Label TextLidded wooden boxes with carved decorations on the front panels were commonly found in American homes in the 17th and early 18th centuries. Used to store a variety of materials—including writing implements, personal items, currency, and valuable documents—they were typically lockable. This box is somewhat unusual in that it is decorated on all four sides with ornate floral and foliate carving, and it lacks a locking device. It also has traces of yellow, green, red, and white pigment, suggesting that it was once elaborately painted. Spear-shaped strap hinges secure the lid to the box. The letters “I M C” are probably the initials of the box’s original owner; “1745” refers to the year in which it was made. The interior of the box has a long compartment with a hinged lid that was possibly used for writing implements.

Object number2017.5.28