Antique Gustavian Box Bench in Original Red & Black Paint

A handsome Swedish oak and pine box bench, circa 1850, in the neoclassical or Gustavian style, retaining its original red and black paint. A removable pediment adds a decorative flourish, while the scrubbed pine seat lifts to reveal a useful storage compartment. Originally designed to double as a bed, the bench has a pull-out front supported by additional legs, creating a sleeping compartment—a feature commonly found in traditional German and Scandinavian country benches. Sweden, circa 1850.