Hi Shelly,

Thank you for contacting Mearto with your appraisal inquiry.

Dough boxes are wooden containers traditionally used for mixing, kneading, and rising bread dough. They were commonly found in 18th and 19th-century kitchens, particularly in rural homes. The design typically includes a deep, rectangular or oval box with a hinged or removable lid, often mounted on legs or a stand. The wide, deep interior provided ample space for mixing flour, water, yeast, and other ingredients. The enclosed design helped keep the dough warm and protected from drafts, allowing it to rise properly. When not in use, the box could double as a storage container for baking tools or ingredients.

Factors in evaluating dough boxes included complexity of construction (yours is fairly plain), if there is decorative carving (yours doesn't have any) or paint decoration (this appears to have a reddish stain on the lower section; the top looks pretty well worn, or what would be described in the business as 'scrubbed'). While an antiques dealer might ask several hundred for one like this in their shop or at an antiques show, at auction these days, they usually sell for less than $500.

If you'd like for your appraisal to include dimensions, which is customary, please forward in the comments section - at your convenience - the height, width, depth, diameter and I'll update this ASAP.

Based on the photos and information provided, and subject to examination, this is:

An American red-stained pine dough box
probably 19th Century
With rectangular top with cleat ends, the tapered case with dovetail corners on a frame short turned legs.
(DIMENSIONS)
CONDITION: This dough box appears to be in generally good condition with wear commensurate to age and use, including splits and separations to the top, rubbing and losses to the paint.
PROVENANCE: Acquired in a home purchase
$ 200-400*
*represents a fair-market value for auction purposes; retail or asking price may vary.

Please let us know if you have additional items to appraise, or questions/concerns, and thank you again for using Mearto.
~ Delia