Document Box, circa 1820
THF152507 / Document Box, circa 1820
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Artifact Overview
Any American involved in business in the early 1800s would have used a document box to carry important papers. Though these functional containers weren't fancy, they were nearly always decorated. This showy, crudely painted example reflects the importance of classical antiquity to early nineteenth-century Americans. Its "classic" swags and garlands signified the rebirth of democracy and representative government in the young republic.
Artifact Details
Artifact
Box (Container)
Date Made
circa 1820
Place of Creation
Location
Not on exhibit to the public.
Object ID
66.135.1
Credit
From the Collections of The Henry Ford.
Material
Tin (Metal)
Brass (Alloy)
Color
Red
Yellow (Color)
Dimensions
Height: 6.5 in
Width: 5.125 in
Length: 9.25 in
Keywords |
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Related Content
SetTinware
- 11 Artifacts
Tin-plated iron, commonly called "tin," was the dominant material for utilitarian items in 19th-century America. It was lightweight, inexpensive, easy to clean, non-toxic, and durable. Tinware resisted corrosion and had a pleasing silvery appearance that could be enhanced through decoration. Middle-class Americans happily purchased tinware in place of equivalent housewares made from earlier materials like wood or pottery.