Sweet Old Pennsylvania Folk Art Stripe Painted Wall Box handmade letter opener dated 1939

dated 1939

and clearly the portrait of a particular

because it reminded me of Duchamp's "Rotoreliefs

filled with sea salt or fresh herbs of which I might take a pinch as needed

It feels pretty old and is wonderfully rough-hewn

Sweet Old Pennsylvania Folk Art Stripe Painted Wall Box handmade letter opener dated 1939Found in Berks County, PA, and I'd bet that's where it originated, or at least nearby, early 20th c. I believe; Great form, great striped paint job, and one little chip carved flourish along the top. Nicely aged paint, very sweet. 7 7 8" t x 8 3 4" w x 3 1 8" deep. Good antique condition, one nail repaired split visible from the back; I wou; d not put anything heavy in the pocket, but it's s stable and pretty sound.