Shaker Collections

Historically, self-sustaining Shaker communities were skilled in simple and elegant carpentry. Shaker furniture, with its minimalistic lines, was designed to be functional rather than decorative. Over 180 Shaker and Shaker-related lots will be offered by Skinner in the upcoming auction. The Shaker style can be best seen in cabinets with a five-piece door and a recessed center panel. Offered in this sale is a large yellow, almost pumpkin-colored cupboard from the New Lebanon Shakers. 

Another piece on offer is a butternut trustee’s chest from Enfield. It has ten drawers and features an ivory diamond keyhole. Smaller lots in the sale include buckets, carriers, pails, candle stands, chairs, and pantry boxes in many sizes and colors. Among these items is a Shaker pantry box with an oval shape and bittersweet paint (circa 1840). Also unique among the smaller lots is a carved wooden dipper painted in white. To register, view, and bid, visit Bidsquare.