Pa. German Chest
c. 1936
Frances Lichten created this detailed study of a Pennsylvania German chest around 1936, preserving a folk art treasure from 1782. The original wooden chest, painted a deep teal, features two elaborate arched panels filled with colorful birds, blooming flowers, and a spotted leopard lurking at the bottom. The inscription 'Iacob Rickert Anno 1782' marks it as a personal belonging, likely a dower chest given to a bride. Lichten was a key artist for the Index of American Design, a New Deal project that documented traditional crafts, ensuring these vibrant pieces of history weren't forgotten.
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