Painted Pine Folk Art Ship Chest Depicting the H.H. Cole, 1843

A wonderfully characterful hand-painted pine ship chest featuring a folk art depiction of the schooner H.H. Cole and the date 1843.

The chest has developed an exceptional naturally aged surface, with wonderfully worn paint, softened colors, and a rich patina that gives it the authentic timeworn appearance so desirable in early folk art furniture. The painted ship scene across the front provides a strong maritime character and makes this much more than a simple storage chest.

The H.H. Cole is associated with Salem, Massachusetts, during the mid-19th century, when schooners played an important role in New England maritime commerce. Vessels of this type commonly traveled the Atlantic seaboard and trade routes extending into the Caribbean, making the painted subject a fascinating reminder of the region's seafaring history.

Beyond its decorative appeal, the chest remains wonderfully practical. Its long, low proportions make it ideal as a coffee table, entryway bench, or storage chest at the foot of a bed, while the spacious interior provides useful storage for blankets, linens, or other household items.

A striking piece of American folk art furniture combining maritime history, practical function, and the beautiful surface character that only generations of age and use can create.

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Condition

Very good antique condition.

The chest is strong, sturdy, and structurally sound with rustic age-appropriate wear and imperfections throughout. The painted surface displays expected fading, losses, marks, and wear that contribute significantly to its authentic character and wonderfully aged patina.

Please review all photographs carefully, as they are considered part of the description and provide additional details regarding the painted decoration, wood, construction, wear, and overall condition.

Additional photographs are always available upon request.

Please note: Decorative accessories and styling items shown in the photographs are intended solely to help illustrate the scale and presentation of the piece and are not included unless specifically mentioned in the description.

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Dimensions

• Width: 39"

• Depth: 16 3/4"

• Height: 15 3/8"

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Specifications

• Item #: GY3384

• Period: 19th Century

• Style: American Folk Art / Maritime

• Material: Pine

• Decoration: Hand-Painted Ship Scene

• Inscription / Subject: H.H. Cole, 1843

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Features

• Hand-painted maritime folk art decoration

• Depicts the schooner H.H. Cole

• Rich naturally aged painted surface

• Wonderful timeworn patina

• Solid pine construction

• Spacious interior storage

• Versatile as a coffee table, bench, or blanket chest

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Buy With Confidence

We understand that purchasing an antique online can be a significant decision. If you would like a closer look at this piece before purchasing, we are happy to arrange a live video call and walk you through the chest in real time.

During the call, we can show details of the painted surface, construction, patina, condition, and answer any questions you may have, helping you make your purchase with confidence.

Please contact us to arrange a convenient time.

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Shipping & In-Store Pickup Information

Furniture Delivery is available within the contiguous United States, with the applicable delivery charge calculated automatically at checkout based on the delivery destination.

Because furniture delivery costs are largely determined by distance, combining multiple furniture pieces for delivery to the same address can offer significant savings.

Free in-store pickup is also available from our Cary, North Carolina showroom. Simply choose "Pick Up" during checkout.