Red footed box with tortoise latch 19th-early 20th century

This Red Footed Box, of undetermined date and origin, is made of lacquered wood and brass. The anonymous maker would have used woodworking skills to assemble the box, and then applied multiple layers of lacquer to achieve its lustrous red color. Consider how this finish influences the box’s appearance, lending depth and richness to the surface. The engraved brass hardware, including the tortoise-shaped latch, adds a layer of detail and complexity. Each element has been carefully crafted and attached, demonstrating the maker's attention to detail. The processes involved in creating this box, from shaping the wood to applying the lacquer and engraving the brass, speak to broader social issues of labor, politics, and consumption. This was clearly a painstaking production process. By considering the materials, making, and cultural context of this box, we can gain a deeper appreciation for its beauty and significance, challenging any distinctions between fine art and craft.