A 19th c. oval pantry box in old mustard pant over original black. 
Constructed primarily of ash wood for its bentwood body with an applied pine wood base attached via tiny carved wooden pins. The lid consists of bentwood maple with a complimentary pine wood top attached in identical fashion. 
Tapered finger lap joints adorn the body and lid. During its working lifetime, a small and finely executed mend was applied to its  lap joint on the lid reshaping the taper to a beveled point and re-securing the lap with early string. 
Retains a very thick coat of mustard paint, evident with wide brush strokes. Retains a nicely mellowed varnish finish with light crazing and craquelure. 
Small size, energetic color, and ingenuity elevate this box for the collector who appreciates small treen and a clever minded maker. 
New England, likely Massachusetts. Ca. 1830. 3 13/16"W.