Pyrography

It is seriously cold here today and the only time I am leaving the house is to grocery shop. So, I decided to share a unique piece that I own with you. The monkey belongs to Teddy.




This chest has a very unusual picture burned into it. This practice is called pyrography or wood burning. If you look closely at the top of the chest you will see a big toad holding a round plaque with someone's initials burned into it. I have never quite deciphered the initials.


Click for a better look. There is an old witch hunched over a pot. There are nymphs in the smoke coming out of the pot. If you look closely you will see all kinds of creatures. There are snakes and lizards and bats.



Next to the pot is a mortar and pestle. She is adding ingredients. I really wish I knew this pieces history.

Try to stay warm today!

Comments

Very interesting piece! Where did you get it?
It´s cold over here too, but thankfully clouds has come again so it´ll be somewhat warmer this night.
I don´t think I´ve ever seen such a big object have wood burnings. Usually it´s only initials or some kind of frame aropund the object. I really like this chest!
Have a great day now!
Christer.
Maluszeq said…
Woow! I'm so impressed! Where do you get so unique items? Thank you for sharing :)
Carma Sez said…
That would be ideal to take to the Antiques Roadshow if they are ever in your area. Quite a piece!

Welcome to SITS! I know that you will enjoy being a part of this vibrant community of bloggers :-)
A real witchy piece! Cool!
Lesley said…
that is a lot of talent! Beautiful! Stopping by to welcome you to SITS...it's a wonderful community and I look forward to seeing you there!
brokenteepee said…
It is really interesting...a showpiece for your museum? heh heh
Suzie said…
Wow! What an amazing, intriguing piece! My Dad used to do a lot of pyrography when he was alive, so I can appreciate all of the work that went into this cabinet.
It is truly awesome!!

I can't help but wonder if those aren't initials at the top, but a very artistic rendition of one of signs of the Zodiac. Perhaps Capricorn, with the added flourishes?

It almost reads like a picture story book! Truly an outstand piece! Thank you SO much for sharing it with us!

Stay warm!! :-)
Cynthia said…
Although I have been checking out your blog for awhile, I just joined as a follower. Love your posts,collections,cooking info, and most of all pics of Teddy.
clairedulalune said…
That is a beautiful piece, I do hope someone can help you out with your quest, intriging times!
Sharon Day said…
Okay, I do woodburning, but nothing like that! Very very cool! Makes me think about taking it more seriously.
That is a cool piece! Having the history would be fun....

Welcome to SITS..the best SITSerhood around! When you have a minute come on over to my blog and enter my apron giveaway.
Guillaume said…
Amazing piece of work. I love it. Where do you find all of those things anyway? Every time I go on your blog it is like getting into a fancy antique shop, except I love all the articles.
Rue said…
Very neat chest. I love the old fashioned keyhole - do you have the key for it too?

Stay warm!
Unknown said…
Makes you really wonder who the person who designed and did all of the work was and what inspired the piece. Thanks for sharing such an unusual treasure.
Lucie Le Blanc said…
I love puzzles ;) Your piece is quite a challenge. Gorgeous and mysterious. I did a little research : I tought the piece had a germanish air. I think the letters are a T and a D. I'll send you what I found and you tell me if it's possible ;) Kissesssss
I am fascinated by this piece, too. My guess would be that it is old due to the size of the front panel. If the panel is not joined or pieced to create the width and is solid wood, it could indicate that it comes from a period of time in the past when larger pieces of timber were available for woodworkers.
BTW, good idea about the leg warmers for Teddy (aka, Jane Honda -- LOL!).
Marjorie said…
Wow, I love that piece! Where did you find it?
William Bezek said…
I'm really stumped by the insignia, it looks like three Germanic rune symbols put together, but I could be wrong.
Bridgett said…
It's so beautiful!
Anika said…
Beautiful piece! It would be awesome to know the history, wish I could make out the initials!