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  WESTERN PENNSYLVANIA BLANKET CHEST WITH HIGHLY UNUSUAL DECORATION THAT INCLUDES PUSSY WILLOWS, AN UNKNOWN BUT EXTRAORDINARY HAND, 1810-1830
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WESTERN PENNSYLVANIA BLANKET CHEST WITH HIGHLY UNUSUAL DECORATION THAT INCLUDES PUSSY WILLOWS, AN UNKNOWN BUT EXTRAORDINARY HAND, 1810-1830:

This exceptional blanket chest resonates of both Pennsylvania and Ohio influences, but is made of poplar, which probably places in the Western half of the Keystone State. The background is oxblood red and the striking decoration is executed in chrome yellow and black. The paint surface is a 10-out-of-10.

I have never before seen this hand, which is at the same time old and modern in its geometric depiction of pussy willows. These appear in both vertical format and diagonally opposing; both straight and meandering. On the face of the chest, the central and outer stems are like pillars, with whimsical, curly cue terminations at top and bottom in each corner. The diagonal theme is continued on the side panels, with leafy branches inside consecutive squares.

Made sometime between the last decade of the 18th century and the 1830's, the chest has a dovetailed case and a beautiful, bracketed base with French feet (that have a slight outward flare). There is a glove box on the interior, plus the original hinges and lock.

An all-around extraordinary example, in a refreshing style that is very different from the usual fare, surviving in an exceptional state of preservation.

Condition: There is some wear on the lid, but far less than expected. There is a light water spot on the lid, but nothing serious.
   
Primary Color: oxblood red, chrome yellow
Earliest Date: 1810
Latest Date: 1830
For Sale Status: Sold
Price SOLD
E-mail: info@jeffbridgman.com
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