19th Century Colonial American Chest of Drawers, Paint Decorated Americana
 
Charming chest of drawers in white pine. The front is decorated with an original Folk Art painting. It is executed with gesso and paint on the wood surface. The painting, by an unidentified artist, portrays an early cricket game played in the front grounds of a lavish estate. The players wear white uniforms with black tricorn hats. The sides and top of the chest are grain painted with veining in a two-tone finish. The turned feet are also grain painted.
 
This is a showpiece of colonial outdoor activity. The game of cricket was introduced by British soldiers into the Americas. The appealing artwork gives a living quality to the story of American cricket games. It also showcases the beauty of New England Folk Art.
 
Condition is fair. The chest was in active use, although the freshness of the paint is still present with wear through age and use. It is structurally sound. There is a lot of wear to the top including a split. The front painting shows wear around the pull knobs and keyholes. All drawer locks are present, no keys. The back is missing one of 3 panels. This original chest is untouched and in unrestored condition.
 
Measurements:
H 33” x W 32” x D 18”
Approx. 40lbs.