Barnes Takeout: Art Talk on a Pennsylvania German Cupboard from the Mahantongo Valley

Explore the connections between Pennsylvania German decorative arts with Robin Craren, collections research coordinator
When you're back #seeingtheBarnes in person, look for this Pennsylvania German Cupboard in Room 18 of our galleries.
About Barnes Takeout: Your Daily Serving of Art
In short videos, Barnes curators, scholars, and educators present off-the-cuff musings about some of their favorite works in the collection. Take a break during these trying times, and refocus your mind on something calm and nourishing.
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[@kayleenlewis4229]

Such a practical piece to have been included in this collection. Glad to hear during these talks that Dr. Barnes did not believe that "art" was only limited to the Monets etc. We have tired to buy one piece of local art on every trip we have taken for the last 37 years. The result can only be described as eclectic! I think it is one of the reasons we love the Barnes so much! We would love to have our collection be as organized and grouped as thoughtfully as yours! Great job!

[@vincegreen5372]

Thank you for explaining the background of this piece. I find it interesting how the artist/craftsman made his choices regarding the decorative elements of the piece. You pointed out the painted black trim motif on the door and drawers - an obvious nod to the non-artistic element of the cost of his time (or maybe that IS an artistic element! heheh). The decorative painted strokes on the flat sections of the unit that you pointed out also probably an element of cost - in addition to the supply availability. However, in contrast to these cost-cutting measures, the artist made certain the two most prominent woodworking elements spared no expense of his time given their importance to him. That is strong, dominating moldings at the very top of the unit and the delicate (and quite contrasting) little arches built into the tops of the glass-holding doors. Very interesting choices I say. All elements that make this piece quite unique!

[@libbysullivan1454]

Hi Robin: very nice talk. What is the spelling of the area 85 miles NW of Philadelphia where this was made please and the name of the town? Many thanks. Libby

[@barbaramaletz2861]

I was wondering about this location, too. I discovered it spelled out in the heading for this segment "...a Pennsylvania German Cupboard from the Mahantongo Valley".

[@susanthorkelson1655]

Thank you, Robin! A beautiful piece. I love the colors used to decorate. Also the patterns. The history of the piece is fascinating.

[@pamelaroesch707]

Love this interesting piece of furniture! So glad that you are calling it a Pennsylvania German piece, instead of a Pennsylvania Dutch piece, which they are often incorrectly called. Really like all the detail, the paintings on the piece, the locks on each cupboard, etc. I am really going to take a closer look when we can get back into the Barnes to see this up close and personal. Thank you for the informative takeout today!

[@captainwgg]

It all starts to fit together, Robin. Your piece on the pitcher and the earlier takeout on the PA German chest with today’s discussion give an added dimension to the rich world of these skilled artisans.

[@garybonas5366]

Thanks, Robin. I’m glad that you discussed this piece. It caught my interest when you did the earlier show on the glasswork.