Certified Paint. Original certificate in owner's possession. Signed PORTOCARRERO 66. Need some restoration. As per Appraiser (cert. issued 1/9/98) states: Slight abrasions on the overall surface with a few points of loose pigments - Restoration is recommended. Restoration might cost @ $900.00 USD. Need to know approximate actual value.
This piece has been in our family for five generations. It was bought new by my great grandmother from Schuler's Furniture and Funeral Parlor in either Neillsville or Greenwood, WI in 1892. It has since been passed down and has been used as a general storage piece. My grandmother laquered the exterior (bartopped it) and painted the interior pink. The top piece has apparently been reattached with nails after some bowing caused the glue to come loose (don't know when). It was a very popular piece when made, and is considered very rare by a local Neillsville historian.
Of the three types of pie safe made, this is the one with holes and no metal. All of the hardware is original. I have about 20 detailed photos which are available on request.
After looking for this particular art work I can find very little on it. I do know that in 1893 J. Gould discovered this bird at a ship's port. The frame looks to be about 20 or 30 years old, maybe. Have no idea what it is worth. Could someone please take a look and give me a clue of what it is valued at? Not sure if I am going to sell it or not. Thank you so much for your help.
