A superb 19th c. cutlery tray in original varnish finish protecting paint decoration laid on a black ground.
Constructed of eastern white pine wood with ovolo shaped ends. Canted sides are dovetailed at its corners. A medial divider is attached at its ends via early iron irregularly cut square nails and features a cyma reversa shaped profile and pierced grab handle. A pine wood bottom is applied via early iron square nail joinery laid out with scribe work. 
The highlight of its appeal is its ornamented paint decoration consisting of polychrome freehand floral decoration surmounting its entire outer surface. Green, yellow and bittersweet colored decoration adorns its canted sides. Imposing pomegranates adorned and surmounted by leaf decoration encompass the decoration of its ends. 
Retains a solid red painted interior complimented with a single mustard pin stripe highlighting its enfire profile. A single freehand painted tulip in mustard paint adorns the handle on both sides of its divider.
A best of kind for cutlery trays celebrating the tradition of toleware painting of the period. Exuberant colors, fine decoration and superior surface qualities categorize this tray for the advanced collector. 
Remains in overall excellent condition with light interior wear and two mended fissures from its use prior to upcycling into its decorated finish. 
Northeast origin, New E gland or Pennsylvania. Ca. 1830. 14"L x 7 1/2"W.