Rare early pin cushion-top wallpaper box. Unlike the more commonly encountered oval and round examples, this miniature Pennsylvania German box—dating to the early 19th century—features a distinctive rectangular form. The exterior is covered in blue wallpaper decorated with large sunflower motifs, with coordinating paper applied along the edges of both the box and lid. The pincushion is edged with its original period hand-loomed tape.

 

The removable pin cushion top lifts to reveal an interior compartment designed for storing pins and other small sewing notions. The interior sides are lined with blue paper, while the base and underside of the lid retain what appears to be original brown floral hand-painted paper.

 

Adhered to bottom of the box is a fragment of a religious text, a typical practice of the 18th-19th century of incorporating religious print fragments into decorative objects.  The text is in German and printed in fraktur script. (partial translation is available if you’re interested).  In fine condition, with expected wear consistent with age and use.

Dimensions:  4 7/8" x 3 5/8" x 1 5/8" height. 

Provenance:  Private collection (long time); Barbara Ardizone Antiques.