Early 19th century painted pine dower chest coming to auction

DOWNINGTOWN, Pa. — Beginning Friday, April 24th with the long-anticipated Americana and Fine Art Auction, Pook & Pook, Inc. kicks off a weekend of antique and

fine art offerings.

Following Friday's event, the weekend continues with the sale of J. Jefferson and Anne Weiler Miller’s singular estate on Saturday, April 25th and culminates with an online auction, facilitated by Bidsquare, on Monday.

Opening with fine art, Friday’s early highlights include a large Edward Willis Redfield oil on canvas titled “Across the Canal.” The piece’s exceptional provenance contributes to its allure; it was purchased directly from Redfield by the present owner’s grandfather. Also of note is an oil on board by Southern artist William Aiken Walker. Walker is best known for depicting the lives of emancipated slaves in the post-Reconstruction South. Moving back up North, Pook & Pook, Inc. offers strong examples of Pennsylvanian art. Two Jacob Maentel watercolor portraits come to the company directly from the sitters’ descendants.

Early furniture plays a significant role in Friday’s auction as well, with many fine Pennsylvania pieces. Pook & Pook, Inc. is selling a Dauphin County painted pine dower chest by John Seltzer, dated 1808. Retaining its original grab lock and wrought iron strap hinges, the chest is a rare treat for those interested in Pennsylvania German design. A Chester County, Queen Anne walnut secretary desk, circa 1760 and a Philadelphia mahogany chest-on-chest, circa 1750 offer a more urban take on early American furniture.

From the fine carving of Pennsylvania cabinetmakers to the skillful work of early folk artists, April 24th’s auction highlights quality American craftsmanship. Scattered throughout the sale, are three pieces by Cumberland County, Pennsylvania carver

Wilhelm Schimmel. The two eagles and a rooster all retain their original polychrome-painted surfaces. Also with an original painted surface, a rare Mahantongo Valley, Pennsylvania turned and painted poplar saffron cup attributed to Isaac Stiehly crosses the block toward the end of the sale.

For stoneware enthusiasts, there is a Bennington, Vermont two-gallon jug impressed for J. & E. Norton. Decorated in deep cobalt, the jug features a reclining stag backed by trees and a picket fence and is one of many fine examples of stoneware and redware up for sale on Friday.

For more information visit www.pookandpook.com, call 610-269-4040 or email info@pookandpook.com.