Ref:  6983

A great example of a traditional carved coffer or small dowry box from Eastern Europe, this one with very nice slate green original paint and with a lively ‘apotropaic’ carved abstract detailing. The interplay of circles and part circles and diamond forms with cross hatching of vertical and horizontal marks creates a dynamic interplay & spatial ambiguity which is intended to ‘deter the evil eye’. These beechwood boxes made in the old way slatted and pegged would have been used by the highlanders and shepherds to store personal items and keepsakes, all things that witches and wizards could use to cast spells.

Transylvania      c.1860

H: 59cm (23.2in)
W: 86cm (33.9in)
D: 49cm (19.3in)

SOLD