One more antique spruce gum box from a group of three I purchased from a dealer in Nashville, but which likely originated in Maine or Canada. And this one, though with a few losses to the square corners, and a replaced slide lid that doesn't fit tightly, is in many ways the beauty of the group, carved of truly gorgeous burl wood. I think the oldest too, late-ish 19th I would guess.
Associated with logging and lumbering activities, spruce gum boxes, also known as gum books, were usually carved out from a solid piece of wood, as this one was, with a sliding opening at bottom. Just as sailors made shell valentines and baskets and carvings, these were made by lumberman as gifts for loved ones, most dating from 1850-1920, after which improved transportation allowed them to return home more frequently. Spruce gum, which comes from sap that is hardened into resin, became quite an industry, with Maine the largest and probably first producer of gum with nearly two dozen companies emerging between 1848-1910.
3 11/16 x 3 x 1 9/16. Losses to corners, as detailed, and slide lid replaced at some point. Replacement lid sits flush where it should be is not functional as a closure, not fitting at all tightly and easily falling out of place when the box is handled. Otherwise, very good antique condition, with absolutely gorgeous color and surface to the wood.
