52 x 38 cm Possibly the bas-relief depicts a tree with nuts. Probably is made from peanut tree .Item found in the attic of an old house
Item found in the attic of an old house
This is an early 20th century, Arts and Crafts/Folk Art style hand carved vernacular lidded box. The wood is not peanut wood, which has a significantly different grain and color, it is likely walnut or dark oak. The carving on one side only is a bas-relief of a leaf and nut or leaf and berry branch theme. The background has been stipple carved. At 52 x 38cm this is a significantly large sized box and possibly used for holding kindling for fire, though the use can be whatever suits the need of the owner. The joinery is corner nails which is faster to assemble than dovetail or finger joining. The estimate is based on past auction sales of comparables.