Oh to be so artistically gifted. I am pretty sure this is a Thermos brand metal lunch box from the 1970s that has had an incredible upgrade in it's life! The tole painting of this piece is really, really well done. There is a mossy green background with antiquing techniques on the edges and corners. The design added to this base is one of a celebration of strawberries on the top with light blue and off white flourishes. Inside you find the back of the domed top painted light blue and the base lined with red calico quilted fabric with a lace border. To top it off - a wonderful red leather handle!

The painting is in amazing condition, I believe it is oil based with a heavy top coat for it to have survived with no noticeable nicks or scuffs. It is signed on one end, Sara - Gainsley (sp?). The leather handle shows some rubbing where it attaches to the brackets and tends to lean towards the left. The fabric inside is very nice, just dusty. A gentle cleaning would be in order if to be used for supplies or even as a purse. The clasps on the front work well, pushing in the top lightly when opening and closing eliminates paint damage.

This piece would be such a wonderful decorative addition to a Strawberry social theme, a summer barbeque spread or summer in general. I also think it would be a nice element to add to the craft room for storing all the bits and bobs that end up in those spaces! You decide, it will be noticed, however you use it.

Dimensions:

10 184" long, 7 1/2" tall and 4 3/4" wide