18th Century Decorative Marriage Box

Scandinavian folk art marriage box.

This highly decorative box would have been sent with the bride to her new marital home. Marriage coffers of this sort contained bits and pieces for setting up a household, sentimental gifts such as jewellery, and any other gifts from her family.

This is a particularly charming example, because of the initials 'JJS' and date '1786' painted on the front. Presumably these refer to the initials of the bride and the year of her nuptials. 

Beautifully painted throughout, with a slightly domed lid featuring metal strap supports.

The interior reveals the natural grain of the wood, which has an attractive aged patina, as well as a little separate compartment. 

Dowry boxes were ingrained in traditions of betrothal for centuries, both in humble communities and society's elites. This is a lovely piece of history, and will bring great character to any interior.