Miniature Hope Chest Appraisal

Lane Miniature Cedar Hope Chest

This is a vintage miniature cedar chest, often referred to as a 'girl's graduation gift' or 'salesman sample,' manufactured by the Lane Company. Constructed from aromatic red cedar wood, the box features a rectangular form with a hinged lid. The wood displays a rich, natural reddish-brown grain with characteristic pinkish hues on the interior, indicating the preservation of its aromatic oils. The interior of the lid is prominently stamped in black ink with the Lane logo, followed by 'PRESENTED BY TREASURE CHEST FURN. CO. ONEONTA, ALA.', signifying it was a promotional item from a specific furniture retailer. The hardware includes a metal latch mechanism and small brass-toned hinges. Notably, the chest features a keyhole on the front face, though the key appears to be missing. In terms of condition, there are visible surface abrasions and minor nicks along the wood edges and corners, consistent with mid-20th-century age (likely 1950s-1970s). The interior wood remains clean with a vibrant color, suggesting it was kept closed for much of its life. These chests were traditionally given to high school senior girls as a marketing strategy to encourage future furniture purchases from the sponsoring local furniture store. The craftsmanship is solid, utilizing mitered joints typical of Lane's quality mass-production standards for these specific promotional collectibles.