I was especially interested in the discussion of this storage or shipping box. I personally examined this very item pictured in my furniture repair and restoration shop. Having worked with most all woods, metals and other materials for 50+ years, specializing in Victorian and earlier pieces, I found that this wooden "crate" or what-ever it is called, is 100% authentic although minor modifications were made at a later date. The owner, who I did not know, brought it in simply to learn if it was old. Perhaps I'm not the first person to have seen this SAME box. I did notice early attempts to repair weak areas where boiled hoof glue was used,tack nails added to keep the original tightness of the box joints and other minor modifications in an attempt to maintain structural integrity. I did a fiber test on the hemp rope also which has lost 75% or more of it's original strength. To say it was made in 1887 is impossible but the box was made within a few years either side of that date. He did not offer to sell it nor would I have been interested in purchasing it. Unless a person can personally examine this particular box and have the knowledge to make a informed decision with experience to back it up, I would not be so hasty in your comments. If that piece was a fake, reproduction or facsimile the the creator was a master of deception.
