DRAMATIC!
Polychrome Book Box 

Northeast, ca. 1820-1850. Pine.

The sponge-textured paint animates the surface with fields of warm color, creating an atmospheric presence like a fiery sunset on brilliant autumn leaves, or telescopically into the Milky Way.

The right side and spine in fine condition with expected edge wear…. the left side (or bottom depending on how its placed) with lots of wear and added nails. Retains original hinges and lock in excellent structural condition; stands tall and straight. About 11 inches tall x 7 ¼ wide x 3 3/8 deep.

Made to stand out (literally and figuratively). This paint decoration took considerable artistic imagination, vision, and skill to execute. When lit it glows with depth and movement. I have not seen another like it.