Small Carved Single-piece Wooden Chest – Lace-maker's Box, Love Box – Folk Art

Late 19th century

France – Haute-Loire, Auvergne

A small lace-maker’s box made of softwood, entirely hand-carved in the tradition of Auvergne folk art. Constructed from a single piece of wood, it is carved and hollowed out from a single block, with the exception of its sliding lid.

An intimate and familiar object, this small box is one of those modest reminders of rural life, where everyday utility blended with the artisan’s personal expression. Sometimes given as tokens of affection, these chests could hold thread, needles, jewelry, or small precious objects.

Rectangular in shape with slightly rounded ends, it features a remarkable geometric design deeply incised into the wood, combining triangles, chevrons, wolf’s teeth, cross-hatches, and small four-pointed rosettes.

The side panels feature different designs. One displays a succession of large interlaced rhombuses, punctuated by triangular motifs and small geometric figures. The other is distinguished by a pattern of rectangular registers, alternating between diagonal lines, chevrons, and deeply incised triangular motifs.

The piece as a whole bears witness to patient knife work, characteristic of folk art from the mountains, where each incision contributes to an ornamental language blending artisanal traditions and protective symbols.

The sliding lid, deliberately unadorned, contrasts with the richness of the carved sides. It fits into grooves carved directly into the body of the box, illustrating the ingenious simplicity of its design.

Its beautiful light patina, with golden and brownish hues developed over time, highlights the depth of the carvings and reveals the traces of the craftsmanship.

A discreet testament to domestic life in Auvergne, this small chest preserves all the poetry of these objects crafted with patience, where wood became at once a useful material, a canvas for ornamentation, and a testament to affection.

Condition: Beautiful antique light-colored and golden patina. Signs of use, minor wear, and age-related irregularities. Sliding lid intact.

Dimensions:

15 x 5.5 x 4.5 cm

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