Willow Storage Box l200 circa 1880

circa 1880

circular brass hinges the doors are hinged in the middle on the reverse side

The original paintings on the drawer fronts are faded but still visible

The subtly curved lid gives the trunk its name as well as its graceful lines

Willow Storage Box l200 circa 1880Shanxi, circa 1900 This charming little storage box is made from willow, the curved handle made by steaming the wood to a pliable state. Traces of the original reddish brown finish are still visible, though now largely worn down to the pale wood underneath. The box also still has the old heavy studs and ironware in place. Originally used a food carrying box, it has two separate sections (used to hold different foods) as well as a shallow lid.