This mid 19th century miniature two door cupboard with step back “plate and cup” rack above, is in it’s fantastic original rustic and untouched finished surface. The two door fronts below, maintain their original and extensive stenciling (see images); so unusual for a salesman sample model to have those appointments. The cupboard is very early (circa 1850), and it is rare to have a miniature salesman’s sample extant from that period.
It was likely used by an itinerant sales person who traveled the countryside promoting his articles, usually by seeking out merchants to take orders based on this scaled down miniature cupboard, or by leaving it on display in a merchant’s establishment to take orders from that merchant’s customers.
This miniature American cupboard is made of pine, circa 1850, and is in good condition. The finish is original; vertical style on left door front looks original (old) just not sure if original to the piece. Brass pulls used to open doors which rotate outwards with recessed pins at top and bottom of corners.
All in all, this is a charming miniature version of it’s full scale kitchen step back cupboard counterpart . Miniature articles such as this are cross collectible and highly sought after, attracting the attention of salesman sample collectors, toy collectors, doll collectors and those interested in expanding a collection of Folk Art and Americana.
Dimensions: 20 1/4″ high x 12″ wide x 5 1/2″ deep.