Nantucket, ca. late 18th century. FORM. HISTORY. CONDITION. Mahogany, with white pine drawer interior. The skillful design, the expert construction from thinly-worked stock, and the use of expensive mahogany indicate an experienced cabinet maker made for a sophisticated client. The form has sweeping curves softening the linear base, and a wide stance that give it visual appeal and practical stability (as it was never meant to hang). The backboard possibly suggests a reductive anthropomorphic figure. The drawer front has a crisply beaded border and retains the original bass pull. The appealing surface is dry and appears original. The back of the drawer is signed in pencil SIMEON FOLGER (born in 1762) who could be the maker, or for whom the box was made for. The Folder family is very important in Nantucket history, including Abiah Folger (born 1667) who was the mother of Benjamin Franklin. About 16 3/4 inches tall x 6 3/4 wide x 5 3/4 deep. Super condition with just a minor hairline on the front. Provenance includes Pat Guthman, Southport CT. Pat writing on the receipt from 1998: "I am delighted that you decided to purchase the pipe box as it is such an important piece of Massachusetts history...". Sale includes the Guthman receipt as well as genealogical research about Simeon and the Folger family of Nantucket.