Small Lacemaker's Box - Tree Of Life, Wolf Teeth And Rosettes - Folk Art

Dating: Early 19th century Origin: France – Haute-Loire, Puy-en-Velay region Small carved wooden box, both utilitarian and deeply symbolic, from the popular Auvergne tradition. This type of box, often made within the family circle, was used by lacemakers to store their threads, spindles or small work tools. The front is decorated with a stylized tree of life, standing between two deeply engraved solar rosettes. The tree, a universal motif of growth and transmission, flourishes here as a central axis, flanked by protective decorations. The lid, entirely hand-carved, combines rosettes, chevrons and wolf's tooth friezes, an ancestral motif believed to ward off evil and symbolize strength. These engravings, executed with simplicity but care, demonstrate a desire to make the most everyday object a receptacle of meaning, beauty and memory. Each line, each hollow, bears the mark of an attentive eye, of an emotional bond between the gesture of manufacture and the person for whom it was intended. A modest and precious object at the same time, this box emanates a discreet warmth - that of feminine work, of silent vigils, of invisible transmissions. It is not an object made to be shown, but to accompany a life. Dimensions: 11.5 x 18 x 9 cm Condition: good general condition, some small wear, old cracks from use, small lack on the edge of the lid without fragility. ALL DELIVERIES ARE MADE BY DHL EXPRESS ONLY.