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Dower Chest with Rare Scenic Decoration

Offered by: David A. Schorsch - Eileen M. Smiles Fine Americana

Description
Probably Montgomery County, Pennsylvania, circa 1775
Poplar, original painted decoration, original wrought-iron strap
hinges and escutcheon.
Height 22 inches, width 49 inches, depth 24 inches
The architectural decoration on this chest is extremely rare, known on only two other Pennsylvania German chests from the same group. Likely derived from memory or print sources, the four architectural scenes that ornament the front and sides of this chest depict large, colorful buildings with whimsical details, such as the tulip-shaped weathervanes on the church spires and trees, birds, and clouds which help to recreate the flavor of old-world village life on this extraordinary chest. It is one of three known chests decorated by the same unidentified artist, and the only one in the group retaining its original feet. The two others comprise a chest with drawers dated 1775 and inscribed to Jonathan Reichert (1753–1822), formerly in the McCarl collection and illustrated in Monroe H. Fabian,
The Pennsylvania German Decorated Chest
(New York, 1978), p. 27, fig. 83, and an example formerly in the Bowes collection.
Provenance:
David A. Schorsch, New York, 1995; Private collection.
Exhibited:
“Pennsylvania-German Folk Art,” David A. Schorsch, New York, 1995.
Published:
David A. Schorsch,
Pennsylvania-German Folk Art
(New York, 1995), pp. 20–21, no. 11, and front cover.

More Information

Period:	18th Century
Condition:	Good.
Styles / Movements:	Traditional
Incollect Reference #:	776442

Dimensions

W.	49 in;	H.	22 in;	D.	24 in;
W.	124.46 cm;	H.	55.88 cm;	D.	60.96 cm;

Message from Seller:

David A. Schorsch and Eileen M. Smiles are nationally recognized dealers in American antiques and folk art, specializing in weathervanes, folk paintings, Shaker furniture, and more. With over forty years of experience, they offer expert services in private and corporate collections, authentication, and auction representation—contact them today at 203.263.3131 or via email at contact@schorsch-smiles.com.