Vintage 1940s Painted Asian Theme Lunch Box Chinoiserie Style Union National Inc.

This is a fascinating midcentury lunchbox with a painted Asian theme in the
Chinoiserie style. The figures are somewhat raised, seemingly with thick paint
such that they feel embossed. The painted scene is done well with a high level
of skill. The artists signature appears at the bottom right. Union National
Inc. was an American furniture manufacturer that specialized in high quality
painted furniture, and it seems that someone from the art department at the
company created this fancy lunchbox for a former employee as a parting gift.
Inside, there is an inscription that reads: "Served 72 days hard labor on bread
and jam Dec. 2, 1948-February 12, 1949 at Crawford Furn. Corp Sterling Manuf.
Co. Union National Inc." The recipient's initials appear on the front of the
box, and the handle and latches are also painted gold to match.

Condition:
The lunch box is in fantastic vintage condition and was obviously cherished
and kept well, rather than used much. The painted finish is in great condition
and is a fine example of Chinoiserie style painting. There are a few very minor
signs of age in the form of nicks and scratches, mostly to the handle. There is
a small shallow dent at the bottom of the box in the front between the two
latches. The interior shows just minor signs of use, age, and wear.

bv209