Antique Wire Hinged Box Stenciled with Monogram and Black yellow tin It is my photo not

It is my photo not the painting that is a little crooked

and which I purchased together) dating I think to the 19th century

I've found just one copy out there

it's a special small rug for a special spot

It seems to me that the painting--which has some of the feel (and drama

Antique Wire Hinged Box Stenciled with Monogram and Black yellow tin It is my photo notTo my eye quite a beautiful antique primitive box, early 19th century or so, I presume, with wire hinges and original latch, which has clearly been latched many times as it has traced a a perfect arc on the lid following its trail. Both short ends are stencil painted "black" perhaps indicating it once held black tea? (I first though perhaps boot black, but the interior is clean, so think tea might make more sense, or something else entirely? With the