Schoharie County, New York
Circa 1820-1830
Painted white pine
43.5″ W; 21″ H; 18.5″ D
Schoharie County is known for their bright and exuberant patterns on blue background and have always been highly desirable for folk art collectors. This dower chest in excellent condition is decorated with an overflowing urn of flowers primarily in reds and yellows on the blue ground. A very detailed border surrounds the floral panels and the initials “M” and “F” for the intended owner flank the urn. Similar chests have originated in settlements in the town of Schoharie, NY south to Middleburgh and east to the Altamont area. No chest in this style has been found dating earlier than 1773 or later than 1836. Decoration differs from the 18th to 19th century. Traditionally, almost all chests similar to this have a name or initials of the owner painted on one surface, and many have dates.

WHY WE LOVE IT: Some pieces will just naturally always have a presence.  While we don’t know Elizabeth Bindern was, we know she was very loved by her family and in the creation of this stunning blanket chest.