Likely Massachusetts, ca. 1830-1860. Transport yourself back into a time in which pride in our new country was so great that the symbol of America was represented everywhere, in this case, on a utilitarian box. Pine top and bottom, ash side-wall, with early, very dry blue paint, yet this box is all about the imagery of a deeply carved, folky representation of the Great Seal of the United States, with patriotic eagle and shield, including a single arrow (representing birth in warfare) and an olive branch (hope for a prosperous, peaceful nation). The box shows significant paint wear, and losses to the upper finger and lid broken out long ago where nails were driven in. About 6 5/8 inches long x 5 wide x 2 1/2 tall. Long time private Massachusetts collection. For reference see: STARS AND STRIPES, Patriotic Motifs in American Folk Art, Harding: and THE AMERICAN EAGLE, Isaacson..