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What is a Spice Box?
For that matter what is a candlebox?
The spice box was originally intended to store spices, which were so rare in Colonial America that they were kept under lock and key. While spice boxes were first produced in England and later the American Colonies. They became unfashionable towards the end of the William and Mary period in England and in parts of the American Colonies.
However, they continued to be made in Pennsylvania until the close of the 18th century. While they were popular in the Delaware Valley Area, they most notable were made in Chester County, Pennsylvania.
The contents of the spice box may have changed over the years but it was always intended to hold objects that were of value. The spice box was considered a luxury item and was generally owned by the upper middle class. In fact, the box itself was considered an object of value and occupied a position of prominence within the household.
What is a Candle Box?
A candle box was simply a narrow box with a sliding lid that was used to hold candles. Homemade candles were made of saved animal fat (tallow) and tended to be devoured by mice and other vermin when left out. Candle boxes were made in many different kinds of woods and styles. They can be used to hold candles or anything that strikes the owner's fancy. Today, candles are made of paraffin and vermin tend not to bother with them.
QUESTION: Why purchase a period design spice box?
ANSWER: The average antique American spice box realizes between 25,000 to 100,000 (USD). One can generally find them only in very high end antique galleries.
A reproduction can be purchased for a fraction of the cost of an antique. Create a family heirloom today! Perhaps when your great, great grandchildren inherit this box, it will be as valuable as an antique. IN FACT, in 100 years it WILL be an antique!
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