Posted 10 years ago
BHock45
(807 items)
As I explained on a previous post, these two cradles have the same length and width. I found both of them, about 50-60 miles apart. The newer one, the one with the scrolls is the one detailed in the next two posts. It looks like the same craftsman worked on both, but further examination is needed. The length and width are identical. However, the dovetails are cut in reverse. The rest of the features are very similar.
One cradle was found in Englishtown, NJ. The other in Bensalem, PA.
I had some thoughts on the first one but having the same thoughts after seeing the second one. Especially the scroll work and joinery. You would need to have them looked at to try to authenticate them, but I would not be shocked if they were Pennsylvania Dutch work. If you plan to research them yourself, I would start around 1880 and work forward. These aren't painted or stained from the looks or have been stripped. Earlier work would have been pretty much raw wood like these, newer units would have a pretty fine finish and either stain or paint. High end cradles would have had a bonnet. I second guessed myself on the first one but I would research these. If they are reproductions (which I would doubt) they are well done. There were immigrants who created tramp art and a few were known to copy designs and joinery. Most took pride in their own work and their own style. They came here with their clothes and their hand tools and their trade and very little else. I love this old stuff, just wish I wasn't quite as old.
I do think I will do some more research on these. Especially now, since there are two of them. The funny thing is that I am going out to Lancaster, PA this Friday. By starting at 1880 and working forward you mean, 1880, 1870, 1860. Right?
Its amazing, everyone in my family thinks I am nuts. But I get such a good feeling seeing and talking about stuff like this. Not everyone gets it. Later fhr!
Good luck BHock45....these are wonderful...:-)
inky thanks so much!!!
You seem to do really well with your furniture I was wondering if they could be from the Quakers or such being so plain. I really do think you have been very lucky