SALE 19th c Tole Tin Spice Box - Original Finish - Country Kitchen Primitive

Antiques : - - Sale Room

 

= Long ago when spices and herbs were expensive commodities, folks kept them in small tin boxes in their kitchens. Each spice had it's own box with tightly fitting lid, and these individual boxes fit into a larger tin box that could easily be stored in a cupboard. One could quickly access six regularly-used spices at a time, making it simple for a cook to reach into a cupboard and add herbs and spices to her dishes.

This mid-19th century tin spice box has six square boxes with fancy finials, a bit upscale from the average plain-jane spice box. It's black japanned surface is all original, and shows it's 150 years of life. On the three-dimensional scalloped top, one can still see the original hand-painted red detail lines. More detail lines, all hand-applied, are seen along the box's lower edge. It's dry, crusty finish from years of age shows the wear of a favored kitchen life, used daily more than a centennial ago.

Inside are six matching spice boxes, each also showing it's original japanned finish. They all still have their fancy raised finial knobs, and a couple of the boxes even have a bit of spice still in them! The lids of these individual boxes are hinged; one has come loose, and could be re-tacked, if desired.

Condition is Good. For those of us who enjoy early country antiques, this set shows the wear and loving use expected of it. No repaint or touch up, and there's just a minor bit of surface oxidation, as expected. No holes or rust-through problems on this wonderful box. If you love early country antiques, this one will catch your eye.

Size of the main box is big 6 1/4" deep x 9 1/4" wide x 3 3/4" high. Front latch works well, and was originally designed to be locked if desired.

Individual spice boxes are 2 3/4" deep x 2 3/4" wide x 2 1/2" high, with the finial an additional half-inch tall. Two of the finials show minor loss. The japanning of the individual boxes is in good condition, as the main box protected them.

Hand-made sometime during the 1820s - 1850s by a local tinsmith, showing his experience and craftsmanship in a trade no longer seen in these modern days.

Practical, could be used to store your spices, or to add a fabulous pot pourri scent in your home!

FREE Shipping, handling and insurance within the US. For non-US buyers, please email me for shipping costs.

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Item ID: RL03-104-50

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