£245.00
A charming antique continental treen container, beautifully turned from warm honey-coloured wood and decorated with a hand-painted swallow in flight. Featuring a gently rounded shoulder, fitted screw-top lid and fine incised banding, this unusual piece combines traditional woodturning with delicate decorative artistry.
The painted bird is accompanied by an indistinct signature or inscription, adding further interest to this attractive example of small-scale antique woodenware.
This charming antique continental treen wooden container is a delightful example of traditional turned woodenware, combining simple, elegant proportions with an attractive hand-painted bird motif.
The vessel has been carefully turned from wood, displaying a warm honey-coloured finish with subtle variations in grain and tone. Its cylindrical body rises to a softly rounded shoulder, above which sits a distinctive narrow-necked lid. Fine concentric lines encircle the upper body, providing a restrained decorative detail that complements the natural beauty of the timber.
The most distinctive feature is the beautifully observed silhouette of a swallow or swift in flight, painted in dark pigment against the polished wooden surface. The bird's outstretched wings and forked tail create a sense of movement, giving the otherwise understated vessel considerable character.
An indistinct handwritten signature or inscription appears alongside the painted decoration, suggesting an individual decorative contribution, although the identity of the artist has not been established.
The container opens to reveal a neatly hollowed interior, with a turned screw-thread fitting allowing the lid to be removed. This practical construction reflects the skill involved in producing traditional treen objects, where everyday functionality was often combined with decorative craftsmanship.
The warm colour, tactile surface and compact proportions make this an appealing object for collectors of antique treen, folk art and traditional European woodenware.
Equally attractive displayed amongst books, ceramics or other small decorative antiques, this unusual wooden treen container offers a pleasing combination of craftsmanship, natural materials and individual character.
The container retains an attractive warm polished finish, with surface marks, small scratches and variations in colour consistent with age and previous handling.
The wooden lid displays several visible age-related cracks extending across the top and down the sides of the narrow neck. These are particularly noticeable in the detailed photographs and form an important part of the condition assessment.
The painted bird decoration remains clearly visible, although there is some wear and fading to the adjacent signature or inscription.
The interior shows natural variations in the timber and evidence of previous use. The base displays surface wear and small areas of discolouration.
Height: 17 cm / 6.69 inches
Width: 8 cm / 3.15 inches
Depth: 8 cm / 3.15 inches
Weight: 0.2 kg / 0.44 lbs
Every item offered by Shackleton Fox is carefully inspected, prepared, and where necessary conserved within our workshop prior to sale.
As heritage craftsmen and antique specialists, we believe in preserving the authenticity and integrity of each piece. Original finishes, patina, wear, and signs of age are retained wherever possible, as these elements contribute to both character and historical significance.
When restoration, rewiring, repairs, or conservation work is required, it is undertaken sympathetically using traditional techniques and materials appropriate to the period of the piece. Our philosophy is one of careful stewardship rather than unnecessary restoration, ensuring antiques remain both functional and historically respectful.
The result is a collection of pieces that have been thoughtfully prepared, allowing future owners to enjoy them with confidence while preserving their unique story and character.
