Pa. German Chest c. 1940

"Pa. German Chest" is a watercolor painting by David Dorfman, a noted American artist, depicting a traditional Pennsylvania German chest. The painting is notable for its intricate details, showcasing the decorative motifs common to these chests, including floral designs, geometric patterns, and a central panel featuring the initials "F.L." and the date "1797". This chest likely served as a storage container and, potentially, a dowry chest for a young woman. Dorfman's meticulous style captures the texture and craftsmanship of the wood, highlighting the cultural significance of these chests in Pennsylvania German history.