The official explanation is: "Tole painting is the folk art of decorative painting on tin and wooden utensils, objects and furniture. The practice began in 18th century New England, and was also extensively carried on among German immigrants in Pennsylvania. A separate, related tradition occurs among Scandinavian countries and immigrants, including Norwegians, Danes and Swedes. It is more commonly known as Rosemalling. Simply put is a stylized primitive art. Can send you pics of some of the styles via e-mail..