Wooden Crates and Boxes

Wooden Crates and Boxes carries manufacturing evidence that can be more reliable than graphic style. Stenciling, paper labels, dovetails, nails, brands, fruit, soap, bottles, and shipping context.

Begin with neutral description

Write what is physically present before repeating a seller’s date, rarity, or originality claim. Include the entire object, not only the illustrated face.

Evidence checklist

• Inspect surfaces with neutral light and magnification.
• Record seams, edges, backs, fasteners, supports, coatings, and oxidation.
• Do not clean, polish, flatten, or remove mounts before documentation.
• Compare construction with known period examples.

Condition and alteration

Record fading, stains, folds, tears, losses, trimming, tape, glue, mounting, repainting, touch-up, replacement parts, rust, chips, dents, missing pads, and incomplete packaging. Restoration may be appropriate, but it must remain part of the description.

Research and comparison

Search exact text, addresses, printer lines, dimensions, product names, slogans, and dealer information. Compare museum, library, archive, auction, and marketplace examples while keeping object type and completeness matched.