Pa. German Dower Chest c. 1938

Bernard Krieger's watercolor painting "Pa. German Dower Chest" depicts a traditional Pennsylvania Dutch dower chest, a piece of furniture historically given by a bride's family to her upon marriage. Painted in 1938, the artwork showcases intricate details of the chest, including its carved wooden structure and the painted decorations that are characteristic of Pennsylvania Dutch folk art. These decorations include stylized floral motifs, geometric patterns, and representations of birds and animals, all executed in a vibrant palette of blues, reds, and yellows. Krieger's depiction captures the beauty and craftsmanship of these unique chests, providing a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of the Pennsylvania Dutch community.