19th Century Green Man Trunk – Hand-Carved & Painted Folk Art

A rare and visually compelling 19th-century folk art trunk, carved in the round with expressive “Green Man” style faces on all four sides. Each panel—including the base—is crafted from a single solid piece of wood, showcasing skilled craftsmanship and substantial construction. The lid features a colorful hand-painted floral and bird motif framed by a scalloped border, indicative of regional folk styles from New England or Northern European immigrant traditions.

This example is unsigned but comes from a New England estate with a noted antique collection. The stylized mask carvings—reminiscent of European grotesques or nature spirits—are rendered in deep relief, each unique and full of character. The hinges are a later replacement from the mid-20th century.

Rich in symbolic detail and hand-worked charm, this piece stands out as both a functional storage trunk and a work of vernacular art.

Condition:
Good overall. Surface wear, scuffing, scratches, and scattered chips throughout, consistent with age and use. Paint loss visible on the lid and carved surfaces. Hinges are intact but slightly loose. Structurally solid and sturdy. A striking display piece.

Dimensions:
18 3/8" H x 32 5/8" W x 16 1/8" D