Antique Marquetry Seed Box Premium - A. H. Dunlap & Sons, Nashua, N. H. - Americana

In addition, there's a great graphic paper label on the inside lid advertising the nasturtium seeds that were contained in this particular box. I love nasturtiums, they grow in poor, sandy soil and their blooms are a perfect, bright orange peppery addition to a green summer salad. And aren't these old 19th C chromolithographs wonderful?

I would guess that the inside label was to help a General Store with merchandising by providing an attractive display. But these seeds may also have been sold by individuals, a similar arrangement to the Fuller Brush Company, or Avon today.

CONDITION is great, I can hardly believe how well preserved the paper labels are, someone must have treasured this little box right down to the brass hinge, still present and as functional today as it ever was. Measures 5 7/16" x 8 7/16" exclusive of the hinges and clasp which protrude a little, and stands 3 7/8" tall.

This is a lovely piece of Americana, a remembrance of a gentler era, a time when a whole box of seeds could be had for $1.50 wholesale... can you imagine? Perfect to stash a few small treasures... or even your own seed envelopes. Enjoy!

Item ID: RL-947