A highly unusual antique wood box from Italy, with hand-carved trim molding and a handpinted ikat motif. Beautiful pastel shades of pink, green, navy and ochre yellow are seen in this exotic pattern reminiscent of traditional ikat, apparently hand-painted on canvas then pasted on the wood surface. The effect is bold, graphic and gorgeous! This unexpected motif is contrasted with the traditional Italian wood carving at the edge trim. The interior is in beautiful condition, with the lid lined with fabric and overall very clean. Fitted with a new chain to stabilize when opened. The box is quite sizable, and may be used as tabletop storage for odds and ends. This wonderful box was acquired, together with another fantastic scarole box, in Italy. The storage boxes were used to keep candles in a monastery.
