Box - Wood - Hindeloopen antique little box

Antique Hindeloopen chest with biblical scene – the wise and the foolish virgins

This fine antique Hindeloopen box is a remarkable example of traditional Frisian folk art, richly painted with refined scenes in the characteristic Hindeloopen style. Around the box unfolds a continuous narrative that finds its origin in the Bible: the parable of the wise and foolish virgins from the Gospel of Matthew.

The performance depicts the girls with their lamps, a striking symbolic motif. The wise girls are prepared and carry burning lamps, while the foolish girls arrive late and are depicted with empty lamps. This moralizing scene refers to vigilance, preparation, and insight—themes that in the 18th and 19th centuries were often incorporated into painted functional objects.

The box is made of wood and fitted with a hinged lid. The exterior is richly decorated with hand-painted figures in warm earth tones against a dark background, framed by the distinctive marble technique on the lid. The interior is kept austere, which enhances the contrast with the exuberantly painted exterior.

Through the combination of craftsmanship, symbolism, and narrative painting, this Hindeloopen chest is not only a decorative object but also a tangible cultural-historical document. An appealing collectible for enthusiasts of antiques, folk art, and religious iconography.

Dimensions
Length 22 cm
Width 12.5 cm
Height 7 cm

Photos provide a clear picture of the quality and are part of the description.

The whole item will be sent well packaged with tracking. The shipping costs also include the costs for packing, packaging materials and transport. Pickup is only possible when the lot is auctioned for more than €50 and, of course, by appointment during office hours.

Amsterdamse Haagse Chicago school, expressionisme, neostijl, art deco, art nouveau, kubistisch, jaren 20 30 Jugendstil, neoclassicisme Hindeloopen kistje, antiek kistje, Friese volkskunst, Hindelooper schilderkunst, bijbelse voorstelling, wijze en dwaze meisjes, Mattheüs, religieuze kunst, beschilderd hout, 18e eeuw, 19e eeuw, collectible