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  EXTREMELY UNUSUAL, HIGH-BACK BUCKET BENCH WITH SCALLOPED, STEP-BACK FORM, STYLISTICALLY SIMILAR TO A SETTLE BENCH, IN EXCEPTIONAL SALMON RED PAINT, CA 1830-50
Dimensions (inches): 42" tall x 54" long x 18.25" deep, shelf height 23", shelf depth 14"
Description:
This unusual piece of furniture is absolutely terrific in all respects. With a paint surface that scores an absolute 10-out-of-10, it appears at first gaze to be a settle bench, but with a "seat height" of 23", it is actually a high-back bucket bench. With Shaker-like sensibility, this graceful, rural-origin, 19th century American object has a pine plank shelf, mortised into supports that follow the beautifully scalloped shaped lines of the plank sides. These terminate in a gentle half-moon to create boot jack feet. A kickboard is mortised across the front at ground level. This could theoretically double as a footrest for anyone who wished to use it as seating, but its real purpose would be the protection of large stoneware crocks or stave buckets, that would be stored in the open space beneath the seat. This is only example I have ever encountered in this wonderful and peculiar form, and I know of nothing similar.

The back is comprised of wide plank boards. The entire construction is of white pine, joined with cut nails. The planks are pit-sawn and the most likely date of origin is 1830-50. The most likely area of origin is New England, perhaps Maine, where furniture makers less often conformed to expected designs.

If the style and utilitarian intent are terrific, the original, salmon red painted surface is just as fine. Dry and untouched, it would meet the demands of the most discerning collector. All-in-all, a masterpiece of American paint-decorated country furniture.

Condition: Remarkable. There is a small chip on the back left foot, but there are no other condition issues.
   
Primary Color: salmon red
Earliest Date: 1830
Latest Date: 1850
For Sale Status: Sold
Price SOLD
E-mail: info@jeffbridgman.com
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