Forever is composed of nows. Emily Dickinson 

{HISTORY}

Shabby chic in all the best ways, this antique metal storage box features three stories from the past.

The first story is about the metal box itself, which was made by Metal Package Corp of New York around 1910. Based in Brooklyn at the turn of the 20th century, Metal Package Corp was founded by Alfred E. Burns, an innovative and enterprising packaging salesman who was one of the first manufacturers to offer custom designed and illustrated lithography on tin and metal packaging.

The second story is about the original contents of the box. Starting out in women's cosmetic and toiletry packaging, Metal Package Corp grew to accommodate all sorts of metal containers used for various purposes including food stuffs, specialty chocolates, spices, shoe polish and coffee tins. Most likely this box, due to its shape and size was made to accommodate chocolates.

The third story is that of the handpainted flowers that now adorn the top of this container. With the initials ERJ marked on the bottom of the box, it is fun to imagine the lady who enhanced this box, turning it into a one of a kind piece of folk art. Maybe she was Edith or Emily or Elizabeth. Maybe Eugenia or Evelyn or Edna.  Maybe she painted this box to hold onto all her prized treasures - love letters from her beau, small keepsakes or collections , or maybe it held a more practical place in her home as an organizer or a storage box for daily odds and ends. Lift up the lid and you'll find ample room to house your treasures or your practicalities of everyday life too. That means that Edna or Emily or Evelyn is also, in some ways,  you - a kindred spirit who appreciates finding the beauty in every day. 

In some areas, the paint is flaking off this box leaving behind chippy spots. Those spots add so much additional character and give the box an authentic  shabby chic aesthetic.   

{SPECIAL FEATURES} 

- hinged metal and tin box 

- handpainted floral folk art

- chippy, shabby chic aesthetic 

- signed initials on bottom

{CONDITION}

The box itself is in great sturdy shape. Hinges work smoothly and the lid opens and closes easily. The paint is flaking in some places (please see photos) adding delicate character to the overall aesthetic. 

{SIZE}

Box measures 9.25" inches(length)  x 5.75"(width) x 2.75" inches (height)