Rare and well documented set of Miniature Antique American Furniture created by WPA Artist Vernon Smith circa 1930. Amazing archive lot which includes detailed provenance and history for the group. Comprised of 15 pieces of furniture with additional hand made accessories. Created as scale models from existing inventory in the Sampler Antiques Shop of Cortland NY and Cape Cod. The detail and workmanship is excellent with moving parts, functional drawers, and wonderful finishes. The group includes the following pieces: New England kitchen cupboard - pine - 18th century. Snake leg cherry tilt top table - 19th century. Ox-Cart seat New York circa 1780. Painted Dutch brides' chest - Pennsylvania circa 1790. Table - splay legs scrolled skirt - Massachusetts Bay 1730. 2 New England Slat-back chairs Four Slats, sausage turnings - circa 1700. Pine Tavern table, turned legs - stretcher base American 18th-century. Pine desk on frame - American - circa 1700. New England banister back chair - circa 1710. Bow back Windsor chair - seven spindles, Saddle seat, bamboo turnings - American circa 1780. Queen Anne chair - vase back, turned legs American circa 1750 chest and drawers - ball feet - American circa 1800. Spool turned rope day bed - middle 19th century.
Each piece of furniture is listed on the hand written lists from the shop and is also featured on the included Black and White Real Photo Postcards. Some original photos of the antique shop and the original furniture pieces are included along with hand written notes, and a business card with a description of each piece. This set has been kept together within the Smith family until now. Included with the lot are several Excellent hand made miniature or Doll House Type Accessories: Miniature Redware pottery mugs, plates, baskets, several turned and carved wood bowls, Painted Stoneware Crocks, Kettle, Baskets, and a Miniature Braided Rug. Condition is excellent with some minor repairs, and a few dings on the pottery pieces. The paperwork and photos have expected age darkening, etc. The largest measurement would be the pine hutch with a height of 15"
Vernon B. Smith was a Cape Cod Massachusetts Artist and WPA Administrator known for his Bas Relief woodcarvings, Oil Paintings, Watercolors, and Batik Fabrics. He also worked in metal and created miniatures. The works in the auction are directly from members of his family.