Lot 367: A Commemorative Hand-Painted Wooden Sea Chest Depicting the Steam Yacht Aries
A maritime-themed commemorative wooden chest or trunk featuring hand-painted decorations on a black ground. The hinged lid is decorated with a central polychrome tondo depicting a steam yacht at sea, surrounded by gold-toned lettering stating STEAM YACHT ARIES 1873-1880 and FIRST VESSEL BUILT BY BARROW SHIPBUILDING CO. The lid is further detailed with a painted rope-twist border. One side panel features a biblical inscription from Psalm 107 in gold lettering: THEY WHO GO DOWN TO THE SEA IN SHIPS THAT DO BUSINESS IN GREAT WATERS THESE SEE THE WORKS OF THE LORD AND HIS WONDERS IN THE DEEP. The chest is constructed of wood and fitted with iron carrying handles to the sides.
Condition report:
The chest exhibits visible surface wear, scratches, and minor paint loss across the lid and side panels. There is rubbing to the gold lettering and painted borders consistent with age and handling. The iron handles show signs of oxidation.
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