Large oval storage box
Probably New Lebanon, New York, circa 1820-1830
Ash and white pine, original dark red paint, 12 x 20 x 15 inches

While standard Shaker fingered oval boxes were produced in sizes ranging from 3 ¾ to 15 inches, a very small number were made outside of these parameters, either in smaller or larger sizes, and were made in limited quantities, probably for specialized purposes. Only a few Shaker boxes made in sizes larger than 15 inches are presently known. Of this box Robert Wilkins wrote: “In our more than thirty one years of experience dealing in the material cultures of the Shakers, this magnificent example is by far the largest classic finger box ever offered for sale.” This 20-inch-long box is fashioned from pine and ash of a heavier thickness than was used in standard box production.