Golden Stars, 19th C. Candlesnuffer on Wonderful (and Self-Referential) Tole Painted Tray american penmanship There remains brass pin near

There remains brass pin near the opening end which locks into the opposite side to hold it closed

and the object--this one loaded with love and charm

2 1/2" t x 2 5/8" l and in very good condition

I've had this sitting around for a bit

but a bit hard to read) and dating it to 1818

Golden Stars, 19th C. Candlesnuffer on Wonderful (and Self-Referential) Tole Painted Tray american penmanship There remains brass pin nearIt is 100% the dense field of tiny hand painted gold stars around the perimeter that sold me on this tole painted tray and scissors style candle snuffer wick trimmer set wonderful, and unusual, and feeling completely the right thing to set on the mantle during a long, dark, cold New England winter! There is something quite satisfying in having just the right tool to match a specific task, too, with real pleasure to be had in putting a candlelit room