• Antique German polychrome-painted bentwood "Spanschachtel" ribbon box, late 18th century, featuring a round reddish-brown shape, decorative trim, and a colorful lid with European folk art of three dancers amid florals and swirls.
  • Antique German polychrome painted bentwood "Spanschachtel" ribbon box, late 18th century, features an oval shape with a lid depicting three people in traditional folk dress dancing amid floral and leaf motifs—a classic example of European folk art.
  • An antique German polychrome painted bentwood "Spanschachtel" ribbon box (late 18th century) featuring a hand-painted floral design and two seated figures in traditional clothing—an exquisite piece of European folk art.
  • An Antique German Polychrome Painted Bentwood "Spanschachtel" Ribbon Box, c. late 18th century, features colorful European folk art floral and figure designs on an oval-shaped body with a hinged lid, displayed on a reddish-brown surface.
  • This Antique German Polychrome Painted Bentwood "Spanschachtel" Ribbon Box (late 18th century) features an oval shape, a painted lid with three figures dancing in folk dress, and detailed European floral and leaf motifs.
  • An Antique German polychrome painted bentwood "Spanschachtel" ribbon box, late 18th century, featuring floral and bird motifs on the lid with green and yellow side accents, sits atop a brown wooden surface. Brand unknown.
  • An Antique German polychrome painted bentwood "Spanschachtel" ribbon box (late 18th century) with a lid showing two figures in traditional dress among flowers; open to display its pale green interior on a polished wood surface. Brand unknown.
  • An Antique German Polychrome Painted Bentwood "Spanschachtel" or Ribbon Box, c. late 18th century, with an oval form and worn flat lid, sits on a polished wooden surface. Fading and small marks on the lid highlight its rustic charm and age.
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Antique German Polychrome Painted Bentwood "Spanschachtel" or Ribbon Box c. Late 18th Century

Antique German Polychrome Painted Bentwood "Spanschachtel" or Ribbon Box c. Late 18th Century

Carefully selected for its quality, character, and lasting appeal.

$490.00 USD
$0.00 USD $490.00 USD
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This wonderful antique German Spanschachtel, or bentwood ribbon box, dates to the late 18th century and is a charming example of European folk art craftsmanship. These lightweight bentwood boxes were traditionally made for storing small personal items, textiles, ribbons, sewing materials, and household treasures. Often given as gifts or used in daily life, surviving examples with their original painted decoration offer a beautiful glimpse into early domestic life and folk traditions.

The box is constructed using thin bentwood, shaped into its distinctive oval form and secured in the traditional manner. The surface retains wonderful original polychrome decoration, including colorful hand-painted figures in traditional dress surrounded by floral and foliate motifs. The warm aged surface, softened colors, and honest wear create the kind of patina that only develops through centuries of use and care. The combination of simple craftsmanship and expressive folk decoration gives this piece tremendous character and makes it a great accent for a modern interior.

The box is in nice antique condition with wear consistent with age and normal use. There is expected wear to the painted surface, edges, and finish from over two hundred years of history, along with minor age-related imperfections visible in the photos. These details add to its authenticity and charm rather than detract from its appeal. A beautiful early folk art piece with wonderful color, history, and decorative presence. 4h x 11w x 9d

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