Signed, Small Staved Cask/Keg with Button Hole Joinery in Deep Red Paint

New England, ca. 1750-1820.
A bit larger than a rundlet, and not made for carrying (never had straps), this small cask is beautifully made with hand-planed staves joined by overlapping bands, and secured by large wrought nails. It could have held a range of materials from rum to gunpowder.

One end is carved with the initials “IB”, the I crossed in the manner seen in the 18th century.

Early deep red paint. About 7 ¾ inches tall.